Letter from our Founder, Gillian Gray
Gardens and nature have always inspired me—ever since my childhood exploring the layered woods, fields and streams of Sussex, gathering bluebells and getting muddy. My grandfather worked as nurseryman for the Duke of Northumberland. Both my parents were keen gardeners. Not surprisingly, I followed in their footsteps right down to earning my degree in Environmental Sciences. I am passionate about sustainability and take every opportunity to expand my knowledge.
Whilst working for the Parks and Recreation Department of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, I encountered the Chelsea Flower Show. I was hooked! After moving to California in 1998, I joined my local Garden Club, qualified as a University of California Master Gardener and now, I have completed my training to be a Docent at the UC Botanical Garden in Berkeley.
I still yearn after leafy lanes and stunning purple rhododendrons, the expansive views from the chalk downlands to the charming villages, and Public Gardens—which must be seen to be believed! I wanted to share this rich tapestry of sensibilities with others, to guide them to such places which might prove to be too remote or complicated for them to find on their own.
I have travelled independently all over the world, eschewing the crowds, not wanting to be swallowed up. I wanted to convey the aspect of confident, individualized travel. Hence, my concept of traveling in a small group of garden-lovers and history enthusiasts, wandering off the beaten path, and experiencing the flourishing heart of England and its rich history.
I hope that you will join me as we travel the lanes and byways of The Land of Gardens.
Sincerely,
Gillian
PS And if you are wondering about the name... Rose is my daughter's middle name and mine is Heather.
Gardens and nature have always inspired me—ever since my childhood exploring the layered woods, fields and streams of Sussex, gathering bluebells and getting muddy. My grandfather worked as nurseryman for the Duke of Northumberland. Both my parents were keen gardeners. Not surprisingly, I followed in their footsteps right down to earning my degree in Environmental Sciences. I am passionate about sustainability and take every opportunity to expand my knowledge.
Whilst working for the Parks and Recreation Department of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, I encountered the Chelsea Flower Show. I was hooked! After moving to California in 1998, I joined my local Garden Club, qualified as a University of California Master Gardener and now, I have completed my training to be a Docent at the UC Botanical Garden in Berkeley.
I still yearn after leafy lanes and stunning purple rhododendrons, the expansive views from the chalk downlands to the charming villages, and Public Gardens—which must be seen to be believed! I wanted to share this rich tapestry of sensibilities with others, to guide them to such places which might prove to be too remote or complicated for them to find on their own.
I have travelled independently all over the world, eschewing the crowds, not wanting to be swallowed up. I wanted to convey the aspect of confident, individualized travel. Hence, my concept of traveling in a small group of garden-lovers and history enthusiasts, wandering off the beaten path, and experiencing the flourishing heart of England and its rich history.
I hope that you will join me as we travel the lanes and byways of The Land of Gardens.
Sincerely,
Gillian
PS And if you are wondering about the name... Rose is my daughter's middle name and mine is Heather.
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I ...
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference