Few spaces are more calming and zen-inducing than a beautiful garden. It’s hard not to feel at peace when you’re surrounded by flowers, fountains and the sounds of nature, and research has shown that walking through green spaces can put the mind into a state of meditation. A University of Michigan study also found that subjects had improved memory and focus after walking through an arboretum.
Even if you’re not planning a trip to any of these destinations this summer, looking at beautiful pictures of nature has been shown to have greater cognitive benefits than walking through the city. Scroll through the stunning garden photos in the slideshow below for an instant dose of tranquility and stress relief.
1. Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales 
2. Cerney House Gardens, England 
3. Wallerton Old Hall, England 
4. Cotehele, England 
5. Braco Castle, Scotland 
6. Dyffryn Fernant, Wales 
7. Cambo Estate Gardens, Scotland 
8. Dalemain, England 
9. Hindringham, England
10. Kentchurch Court, England 
11. Lip Na Cloiche, Scotland 
12. Kentwell, Suffolk
13. Rhodd’s Farm, England 
14. Bryan’s Ground
