We are a nation of gardeners and weather watchers. Two hobbies so entwined they’re like colourful autumn rosehips woven through the English hedgerows and, whether our slice of growing space is a sprawling lawn with giant topiary lining the paths or a city balcony overflowing with clambering passion flowers, our instinct to nurture and cultivate has been borne through us since the end of the sixteenth century.
From perfectly manicured formal gardens to wild expanses of land which merge with the wild, our gardens have changed with the ages of monarchs, politicians and fashion. It was Capability Brown who opened up the gardens of England’s stately homes to become extensions of the world beyond, rather than refuges from it, and even though the Victorian years saw raised beds laden with exotic flowers and strict, intricate design, Brown’s flowing style of meandering pathways leading through pockets of woodland and bursts of wildflowers still influences many gardens today.
Through the past 12 months our gardens and windowsills have become our sanctuaries, places of change in a world which has felt so stagnant, so still. With UK hospitality starting to open its doors to guests, we invite you to kick off your shoes to wander through some of our finest English garden escapes, where meadows cushion bare soles and wild roses scent the air.
Mulberry Mill
Combining topiary archways shading bistro tables, lakes surrounded by wildflowers and enormous weeping willows swaying in the breeze, Mulberry Mill’s gardens welcome the rolling West Sussex countryside in with enthusiasm. Between the walls of this converted mill, higgledy-piggledy beams cross over walls, while gentle florals, flagstone floors and antique furniture embody the very essence of an English country escape.
The Sculptor’s Gardens
A sculpted avenue of pyramid yews, a treehouse and William Holland hot tub tucked between the walls of the orangery; here is a garden designed with childhood memories in mind. Created with imagination and more than a hint of Alice’s Wonderland, The Sculptor’s Gardens bring a touch of magic to every stay at this pairing of Herefordshire homes. Inside, a collection of furnishings sourced from around the world coincides with the house’s history; hand-carved headboards nod to family in India and repurposed tea chests to former custodians (this was once the home of the Twinings Tea family).
Sojourn
Swaying purple foxgloves, bobbing oxeye daisies and even a statue of a pig, the walled gardens of Sojourn are an ode to the English countryside. A private oasis nestled in a valley in Dartmoor National Park, the borders are stuffed with ferns and flowers, while climbing roses reach for the sky over the flower house (a bespoke RHS Chelsea Flower Show buy!). Through the front door and a calm aesthetic awaits, bringing the great outdoors in through every window and with every subtle floral accent.
Avalon Manor
Green, green space awaits in Avalon Manor's gardens, where time can be spent lounging amongst the flowers or playing a riotous game of hide and seek between the trees. Happy pollinators lazily bob between the heady beds of lavender, while a weeping willow provides shade for midsummer picnics. This Wiltshire garden tempts adventure as much as it does relaxation and young explorers will be in their element tearing around the maze of foliage, glass-like ponds and secret stairways.
The Walled Garden
A rowing boat gently floating on The Walled Garden's serene river makes for a heavenly sight upon entry to this English garden in The Cotswolds, but that's just the beginning of the treasures to be found here. Further on, a walkway shaded by bowing apple trees leads to a Gothic garden door, while a waterfall, mirrored ornamental pool and pavilion all vie for attention. Residing in the original kitchen garden of Dyrham House, here is a romantic retreat, whatever the season.
The Parsonage
Twelve acres of gardens encapsulate the very essence of English gardening, with an arboretum, orchard and intricate topiary all found within its formal gardens and stunning parkland. Designed with al fresco living in mind, an array of formal and relaxed dining areas can be found across The Parsonage's grounds, making this the perfect place for both afternoon teas and sweet summer sundowners. Behind the swathes of Wisteria, a contemporary yet traditional home sleeping up to 12 guests awaits.
