Guide to the World's Best Rose Gardens
Roses have captivated gardeners and flower enthusiasts for centuries with their beauty, fragrance, and symbolism. From historic European estates to sprawling public parks, the world is home to breathtaking rose gardens that celebrate the diversity of this beloved flower. Here’s a florist guide to some of the finest rose gardens across the globe.
1. Keisei Rose Garden – Japan
Location: Yachiyo, Chiba
Best Time to Visit: May and October
One of Japan’s largest rose gardens, Keisei Rose Garden boasts over 10,000 rose bushes and 1,500 varieties. The meticulously maintained landscape features winding pathways, fountains, and trellises adorned with colorful blooms. It’s a must-visit destination during the spring and autumn blooming seasons.
2. Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden – USA
Location: New York Botanical Garden, New York
Best Time to Visit: Late May to October
Designed in 1916 by renowned landscape architect Beatrix Farrand and later expanded, this garden is home to more than 650 varieties of roses. The collection includes modern hybrids, rare species, and fragrant classics, all thriving under a sustainable, eco-friendly care program.
3. Roseraie du Val-de-Marne – France
Location: L’Haÿ-les-Roses, near Paris
Best Time to Visit: May to June
Established in 1899, this historic rose garden is a haven for rose lovers, with over 3,000 varieties and 16,000 rose bushes. It was one of the first gardens dedicated exclusively to roses and remains a significant conservation site for rare and heirloom species.
4. Europa-Rosarium – Germany
Location: Sangerhausen, Saxony-Anhalt
Best Time to Visit: June to July
Holding the world’s largest collection of roses, Europa-Rosarium features an astonishing 8,500 rose varieties and over 80,000 rose bushes. This botanical treasure is a living archive of rose history, from ancient species to modern hybrids, spread across beautifully landscaped grounds.
5. Queen Mary’s Rose Garden – United Kingdom
Location: Regent’s Park, London
Best Time to Visit: June
A jewel of London, this garden within Regent’s Park showcases 12,000 rose bushes and more than 85 varieties. The beautifully designed beds are filled with hybrid teas, floribundas, and climbing roses, making it one of the most romantic spots in the city during peak bloom.
6. Sacramento Historic City Cemetery Rose Garden – USA
Location: Sacramento, California
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall
A unique and historic site, this garden is part of a 19th-century cemetery and features one of the most extensive collections of old garden roses in North America. Many of the roses cultivated here date back to the Gold Rush era, making it a living piece of history.
7. Rose Garden of Château de Bagatelle – France
Location: Paris
Best Time to Visit: June
Located in the Bois de Boulogne, the Rose Garden of Château de Bagatelle is a prestigious French garden known for its annual rose competition. The collection of 1,200 rose varieties is arranged in a stunningly elegant layout, offering visitors a tranquil escape within the bustling city.
8. Zakir Hussain Rose Garden – India
Location: Chandigarh
Best Time to Visit: February to March
The largest rose garden in Asia, covering 30 acres, is home to over 1,600 rose species. The park hosts an annual Rose Festival, attracting thousands of visitors who come to admire the exotic and hybrid varieties in full bloom.
9. Montreal Botanical Garden – Canada
Location: Montreal, Quebec
Best Time to Visit: June to September
One of the most impressive botanical gardens in North America, the Montreal Botanical Garden features a lavish rose garden with hundreds of varieties. It’s a delight for visitors looking to enjoy well-curated landscapes alongside other themed gardens.
10. San Jose Municipal Rose Garden – USA
Location: San Jose, California
Best Time to Visit: April to November
Recognized as one of America’s top rose gardens, this 5.5-acre park is home to more than 3,500 rose bushes representing 189 varieties. It is a popular destination for flower lovers and photographers, thanks to its long blooming season and vibrant displays.
Tips for Visiting Rose Gardens
Timing is key – Most rose gardens are at their peak bloom in late spring to early summer, though some have a second bloom in the fall.
Visit early or late in the day – To avoid crowds and capture the best light for photography.
Check local events – Many gardens host rose festivals, competitions, and guided tours that enhance the experience.
Respect the gardens – Stick to paths, avoid picking flowers, and follow guidelines to preserve these beautiful spaces for others.
Whether you're a passionate gardener or simply a lover of beauty, these rose gardens offer a stunning glimpse into the world of roses.