Jephson Gardens is the finest public park in Leamington Spa, and by most accounts one of the best in the Midlands. Laid out in 1834 on the south bank of the River Leam, the formal gardens cover around five hectares and run from the town centre east towards Mill Bridge. The design is classic Victorian: long straight paths between carefully managed herbaceous borders, a glasshouse, a boating lake, and a classical temple housing a statue of its namesake.
The gardens host outdoor events through the summer, and the glasshouse has tropical plants and a lily pond that is worth a look year-round. In spring the bulb displays are spectacular. Entry is free, and the gardens are well maintained by the local council.