The gardens cover 15 acres. Designed by J. C. Loudon, a leading garden planner, horticultural journalist and publisher, they opened to subscribers in 1832. Loudon established the design theory entitled Gardenesque. In this style, attention was given to the individual plant and placement in the best conditions for them to grow to their potential. Loudon’s wife was from Birmingham and it was natural for the society to turn to him, the leading designer of his day, to create the landscape for the garden. Loudon proposed the construction of a dramatic glasshouse, but a rather more modest range built by the local firm John Jones & Co. was built. The Tropical House has a lily pool and lush tropical vegetation. Palms, tree ferns and orchids are displayed in the Palm House. Outside there is a colourful bedding on the Terrace and a tour of the gardens includes; rhododendron walks, rose garden, rock garden, a collection of over 200 trees, herb and cottage gardens, museum, children’s adventure playground, aviaries and the National Collection of Bonsai.