The ten privately owned acres are remarkable for their variety and magnificent views and against a backdrop of trees of outstanding shapes and contrast they include unusual topiary, water garden, and arboretum all set in the heart of a progressive fruit farm. Rose terraces enclosed by yew hedges slope down to a lake with a woodland area as a backdrop. The Japanese-style rock garden with ornamental stone lanterns has a series of rock pools winding down to the lake. The Millennium Rose Garden is planted intensely with cream and pink varieties and the perfume is intoxicating on a hot summer day. A spectacular grass maze planted with ornamental grasses and herbaceous perennials is a fun challenge for all ages. Planting throughout gives colour and interest at all times during the open season.
The gardens have an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity with a wonderful contrast between the formal and informal. Restored from 1950 onwards the gardens retain much of the original design of the early 1900s and offer a step back to more leisurely times with that magical charm of still being a family home. The gardens play host to a number of events over the year and include the popular Lambing day, Easter trails, Apple and Cherry Days, and outdoor theatre. There is a free animal trail for children and a very small play area in the maze. Delicious cream teas, cakes, and light lunches are served in the West Wing Tea room.
The gardens are open from 1st April until 30th September every year on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays & Bank Holidays between 11am and 5pm – last entry 4pm. The gardens close every August for one week for a festival.
