Gardens in the Heart of England
The Heart of England is a region steeped in history and heritage. It offers an unrivalled variety of countryside, towns, villages and places of interest. Although an infinite variety of stately homes, museums, castles and cultural sites prevail, one of the most appealing aspects of the region is the splendid array of gardens.
Gloucestershire
Begin your tour in Gloucestershire, home to a great number of interesting and attractive gardens.
Westbury Court Garden, Westbury-on-Severn, Gloucestershire
A rare walled Dutch-style water garden, reflecting the 17th century mania for Dutch fashion. The garden has been restored by the National Trust to its former splendour, and includes canals flanked by clipped yew, charming statuary and a parterre of box topiary, with lovely vistas throughout.
Painswick Rococo Garden, Painswick, Gloucestershire
Further to the east is Painswick. Now in the last stages of restoration, this is a beautiful survivor of 18th century 'rococo' design - a combination of formal geometric features with winding woodland paths revealing sudden vistas. 18th century garden buildings, old fashioned herbaceous borders, large kitchen garden and woodland walks with marvellous snowdrops displays.
Snowshill Manor, Broadway, Gloucestershire
From Painswick, journey north to Snowshill Manor. The cottage-style garden sits in a rustic 'arts and crafts' old farmyard. Walls and hedges outline different garden 'rooms', linked by steps, where blue painted seats, water features and skilful plantings are set off to perfection against the golden Cotswold stone.
Hidcote Manor Garden, Hidcote Bartrim, Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire
Hidcote Manor lies north of Snowshill and is an enchanting garden created by Lawrence Johnstone, divided by yew and tapestry hedges into a series of garden 'rooms' filled with skilful planting including a pool garden, white garden and hot red garden. Elsewhere, old roses, topiary and tree-lined allees abound, with all around, glimpses of the rolling Gloucestershire countryside. An essential visit.
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