Little Sparta
Sculptural poetry at landscape scale on a beautiful wild moorland.
4.6
from 73 Google reviews
1 of 8
Love plants? So do we.
Download the app to see more photos from the Candide community.
About the garden
Opening times
June - September Thursday - Sunday 1PM – 4PM Last Entry 3PM
Useful details
Garden area
7 Acres
Dog walking
No - Guide dogs only.
Cafe or restaurant
No cafe or restaurant on site
Family
Yes - Children of all ages.
Wheelchair access
Completely inaccessible. Access is via a 700m steep, stony farm track. Access is unsuitable for people with breathing or walking difficulties.
Shops
None
ML11 8NG
Check local coronavirus guidance before you visit
Weather forecast
Find the garden
Things to see
No features yet for this season
Google reviews
4.6
from 73 Google reviews
Henry Keazor
5 months ago
5
In my opinion, the experience of "Little Sparta" surpasses what one can read about it or see in photos: The whole site is indeed much more spacious and expansive, and the synthesis of landscape and art, nature and text is even more subtle than expected. One is constantly amazed at the ingenious relationships that are unobtrusively woven between an object in one place and words in another in such a way that each illuminates the other. The whole thing thus has something of a meditative, poetic treasure hunt, laid out in a highly idyllic landscape in which one feels enraptured. It's wonderful that the whole thing is kept very natural and at the same time without too many visitors and without unnecessary distractions or hectic.... An absolute delight!
Brian Lavelle
a year ago
5
This garden is magical, a work of art, a haven. It’s probably my favourite garden anywhere and it makes me happy just to be here, enjoying the surprise of hidden artworks around every corner and revelling in Ian Hamilton Finlay’s genius and playfulness. It’s such a beautiful corner of the world and well worth supporting. Go if you can.
Neil Thomson
4 months ago
5
A hidden gem! Well worth a visit even if it is off the beaten trail. Parking next to the house by arrangement for those that might struggle walking from the car park a distance away. One of the most important sculpture parks even though it is quite small. Ian Hamilton Finlay's vision is astounding.
Annie Tait Chalmers
6 months ago
5
Beautiful place to visit. Very tranquil
Stephen McBride
2 years ago
2
It was free for us, so I shouldn't grumble too much, however, we left feeling very disappointed. It seems to have passed it's hey day, and is possibly not cared for as much as it has been in the past. The walkways, paths and public areas are all heavily overgrown with weeds, making it hard to navigate and appreciate.