Transform Your Space: Inspiring Victorian Side Return Garden Ideas

Christopher Jul 25, 2026

When it comes to designing a beautiful and functional Victorian-style side return garden, there are numerous factors to consider, including the layout, plant selection, and overall aesthetic. A well-designed side return garden can not only enhance the curb appeal of a property but also provide a peaceful retreat for relaxation and entertainment.

Victorian Terrace Garden Makeover For Under £350
Victorian Terrace Garden Makeover For Under £350

The side return garden is a crucial element in any Victorian-style home, as it provides a transition between the main house and the surrounding landscape. A well-designed side return garden can help to create a sense of continuity and harmony between the two areas.

an outdoor patio with potted plants and a bench in the foreground, surrounded by brick buildings
an outdoor patio with potted plants and a bench in the foreground, surrounded by brick buildings

Designing the Perfect Victorian Side Return Garden

One of the key considerations when designing a Victorian-style side return garden is the layout. A symmetrical or asymmetrical layout can be used, depending on the style of the main house and the surrounding landscape. A symmetrical layout can create a sense of balance and harmony, while an asymmetrical layout can add visual interest and create a sense of drama.

a house tour with an entrance and potted plant on the side of the building
a house tour with an entrance and potted plant on the side of the building

When it comes to plant selection, a mix of flowering and foliage plants can be used to create a visually appealing and fragrant garden. Some popular plants for a Victorian-style side return garden include roses, lavender, and boxwood. These plants not only add color and texture to the garden but also provide a sense of nostalgia and tradition.

Using Roses in a Victorian Side Return Garden

a wooden table sitting under a pergolated roof
a wooden table sitting under a pergolated roof

Roses are a classic choice for a Victorian-style side return garden, as they add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the design. There are numerous types of roses to choose from, including hybrid teas, floribundas, and climbing roses. When selecting roses, consider the color, fragrance, and growth habit of the plant to ensure that it complements the surrounding landscape.

Some popular varieties of roses for a Victorian-style side return garden include 'Peace', 'New Dawn', and 'Iceberg'. These roses are not only beautiful but also fragrant and long-lasting, making them an excellent choice for a side return garden.

Adding a Touch of Whimsy with a Gazebo or Arbor

Doing a side return extension on a Victorian terraced house ~ Part 1 ~ - Poppy Loves London
Doing a side return extension on a Victorian terraced house ~ Part 1 ~ - Poppy Loves London

A gazebo or arbor can add a touch of whimsy and romance to a Victorian-style side return garden. These structures can provide a sense of seclusion and intimacy, while also creating a focal point in the garden. When selecting a gazebo or arbor, consider the style and materials used to ensure that they complement the surrounding landscape.

Some popular materials for a gazebo or arbor include wood, metal, and stone. When selecting a gazebo or arbor, consider the size and shape of the structure to ensure that it fits comfortably in the garden.

Creating a Sense of Continuity with Hardscaping

Victorian Terrace Courtyard Garden Ideas for Narrow Outdoor Spaces That Pack Real Style
Victorian Terrace Courtyard Garden Ideas for Narrow Outdoor Spaces That Pack Real Style

Hardscaping is an essential element in a Victorian-style side return garden, as it helps to create a sense of continuity and harmony between the garden and the surrounding landscape. Some popular hardscaping elements include pathways, patios, and retaining walls. When selecting hardscaping elements, consider the style and materials used to ensure that they complement the surrounding landscape.

Some popular materials for hardscaping include brick, stone, and concrete. When selecting hardscaping elements, consider the size and shape of the elements to ensure that they fit comfortably in the garden.

How To Turn A Tiny Concrete Victorian Terrace Back Yard Into A Tropical Oasis For You And The Bees ~ Plant It And They Will Come — BAMBOO BETTY
How To Turn A Tiny Concrete Victorian Terrace Back Yard Into A Tropical Oasis For You And The Bees ~ Plant It And They Will Come — BAMBOO BETTY
an outdoor garden with potted plants and tables
an outdoor garden with potted plants and tables
an alley way with lots of greenery on both sides and stone steps leading up to the door
an alley way with lots of greenery on both sides and stone steps leading up to the door
an outdoor patio with stepping stones, plants and a window in the back ground area
an outdoor patio with stepping stones, plants and a window in the back ground area
All about Victorian terrace small side return extensions
All about Victorian terrace small side return extensions
Chic front garden – Garden Design by Antonia Schofield
Chic front garden – Garden Design by Antonia Schofield
an outdoor patio with potted plants and tables
an outdoor patio with potted plants and tables

Using Brick in a Victorian Side Return Garden

Brick is a classic choice for hardscaping in a Victorian-style side return garden, as it adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the design. Brick pathways and patios can create a sense of continuity and harmony between the garden and the surrounding landscape.

Some popular types of brick for hardscaping include clay, concrete, and engineering brick. When selecting brick, consider the color, texture, and size of the brick to ensure that it complements the surrounding landscape.

By incorporating these elements into a Victorian-style side return garden, homeowners can create a beautiful and functional space that not only enhances the curb appeal of a property but also provides a peaceful retreat for relaxation and entertainment.