Phew, we’ve made it through January. I must admit I’ve been really longing for the return of a bit more light in the evenings. Time to spend pottering in the garden, walking Ishka or visiting special gardens created by others. So, I’m starting up a new monthly feature which is a recommendation round up of some really nice gardens to visit in the upcoming few weeks. The focus is gardens within a closeish distance from my home in Wiltshire, alongside more gardens from further afield.
More information on them all, including opening times, booking etc can be found on their individual websites (linked).
East Lambrook Manor Gardens - Traditional cottage garden created by renowned 20th century plantswoman, garden writer and galanthophile Margery Fish, East Lambrook is a short drive from Yeovil in Somerset. It opens annually with its much anticipated Festival of Snowdrops on February 1st (booking advised), to celebrate all things snowdrop. The garden is an English Heritage Grade 1 listed creation, with beautiful winter and early spring planting in its generous and overflowing borders.
Kingston Lacy - This beautiful National Trust house and garden is one of my favourites in Dorset for year round interest and offering endless inspiration to a garden designer. From late January to March, their woods and gardens are filled with a spectacular snowdrop display. On Mondays and Wednesdays in February, guided snowdrop walks encourage you to look closely at the exquisite different varieties, using snowdrop mirrors to see the fine detail and flushes of green within the snow white flowers. A perfect activity for this half term. Booking advised (£2 per person).
Dyrham Park - Huge grounds and a deer park surround this spectacular 17/18th Century National Trust house and garden near Bath. With formal gardens including a lake and recently rejuvenated Winter Garden, winter gems offer beautiful colour, sculptural trees and peaceful reflections. It’s also a great time of year to spot birdlife amongst the bare architectural branches of the trees.
Sir Harold Hillier Gardens - with its well established and well known winter garden, the Hiller garden in Hampshire is an absolute must visit. It has over 650 plants grown for their seasonal beauty, colour, fragrance, structure and form. This garden can teach us all the value of planning for winter interest, to result in seasonal joy even in the darkest and coldest months!
There will also be plenty of local options wherever you are - take a look at the National Garden Scheme website for more details.
Enjoy exploring!
Eleanor & Ishka x
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