22 acres of award winning Gardens featuring 15 Garden “Rooms,” Historic Manor House, Nature Walk, and Café & Gift Shop
Open April 1st through October 31st
Ladew Topiary Gardens — deemed “the most outstanding topiary garden in America” by the Garden Club of America, named “One of the Top 5 Gardens in North America,” and featured as one of “Ten incredible topiary gardens around the world” by Architectural Digest — is located in the Maryland countryside 20 miles north of Baltimore. Designed and developed by Harvey S. Ladew (1887-1976), the Gardens and historic Manor House are known throughout the world.
Ladew’s 22 acres feature more than 100 larger-than-life topiary forms which serve as the backbone and centerpiece of the Gardens and define a series of themed garden “rooms” including the Rose, White, Yellow, Sculpture and Iris Gardens. A life-sized Hunt Scene of topiary horses, riders, hounds and fox welcomes visitors as they arrive and stands as one of the best known elements of Ladew’s Gardens. From the iconic Hunt Scene and the Great Bowl, to the more intimate Yellow Garden, Ladew’s gardens are maintained to the highest horticultural standards and with a dedication to the design intent of Harvey Ladew.

The 18th century historic Manor House stands as a reminder of the unique and inspired life of a remarkable American character, Harvey Ladew. The house, which was built over three centuries, is home to Ladew’s remarkable collection of English antiques and equestrian-themed art. The Manor House preceded and inspired the gardens which reflect its beauty, elegance and humor.

The Nature Walk, established in 1999, offers visitors an unaltered natural landscape that provides an intentional contrast to the manicured gardens. The Nature Walk serves as a centerpiece for Ladew’s environmental education programs. The native Butterfly House, opened in Summer 2014, offers an up-close view of the habitat and life cycle of native butterflies and caterpillars.

Ladew welcomes nearly 50,000 visitors each year — young and old, local residents, and visitors from out of state and out of the country. Ladew hosts over 100 programs and events each year including the Garden Festival in May, lecture series in the spring and fall, the annual Garden Glow fall festival, a Christmas event, and children’s educational programs year ‘round. Ladew serves over 5,000 members.