local treasures

Here is a sample of the lesser known gardens that we visit (tours vary).

Eclectic private garden:

​Geoff has created a minor miracle in his seaside garden. He has taken the design principle of garden rooms and applied it to his small suburban home. His many ‘rooms’ are tiny, yet packed with exquisite plantings and quirky garden art. I particularly like the references to his family’s heritage as commercial fishermen. He prepares delicious cakes or a light lunch for the occasional private group - last time we had a savory ricotta cheesecake with salad. He has raised many ££s for the MacMillan Cancer Support.
​
Geoff’s beloved garden has won many awards and has been featured on the BBC. 

Fabulous follies and rare plants:

​The owners of a 17th Century Manor began developing this garden into a plantsman’s delight in the 1950s. The 7 acre garden bursts into bloom in spring with displays of magnolias (> 30 varieties), azaleas, and rhododendrons, with drifts of hellebores and bulbs below. In the warm days of summer, the garden is vibrant with crocosmias, dahlias and one of the best collections of salvias in Europe. Ornamental grasses grace the lovely borders and the multi-hued trees of Autumn.
​
This is a surprising garden with an enchanting woodland walk, Italian Garden, explorable 'ruins' and 'temple' (hand built by the owner, using sand and stone from the garden). The stables have been converted into a charming tearoom.