SIX OF THE BEST SMALL GARDENS TO VISIT THIS YEAR
The National Garden Scheme probably conjures up visions of grand country gardens opening for charity, but there is much more to see: allotments, hospice gardens, community gardens, schools and many small gardens. Some open in their own right, others as
This small, informal country garden has been seven years part of a group, but they all offer a staggering array of planting and design ideas.
Garden openings are still subject to Covid-19 restrictions so, before travelling, check the details of individual gardens and book a timed entry slot online at ngs.org.uk. in the making. It is densely planted for all seasons starting in early spring with massed bulbs and flowers around the house. Many plants are either grown from seed or propagated from cuttings, to give generous drifts of colour.
Bramleys, part of The Terrace Gardens group, Oswaldkirk, York, N Yorks
Sunday Aug 15, 1pm-5pm
On the north-west side of Cardiff and with easy access from junction 34 of the M4, Creigiau Village Gardens includes two vibrant and innovative gardens. Each quite different, they offer design and planting ideas for modern town gardens as well as cottage plots. Each has its own forte; Waunwyllt has incorporated next door’s garden and this project is an ongoing development
At 28 Maes y Nant, cottage garden planting reigns, including a large area surrounded by native hedging and an area of garden under mature trees.
Anyone looking for ideas for a garden in an urban setting will not go away disappointed; enjoy a warm welcome, home-made teas and plant sales. 42 Falconer Road Watford, Herts Saturday June 26, noon-6pm (plus many more days, check the website for details)
This quirky urban garden in Bushey, Hertfordshire is packed full of magic. Crystals and antiquarian knick-knacks and pops of brilliant colour complement the planting to make this garden a real delight.
Ornate bird cages and chimneys feature with sculptures, mirrors and been created over the past five years by the current owner. Winding paths lead through naturalistic planting to different seating areas and a summerhouse with far-reaching views. Don’t miss the wild flower orchard with species roses and peonies. Other gardens include Orchard House: a beekeeper’s garden with an emphasis on wildlife; Ewe Cote: a cottage garden full of roses and a small orchard; and Pavilion House: a terraced garden, with different “rooms”.
SHEFFIELD SPLENDOUR
19 Fir Street, Sheffield, S Yorks, open as part of Sheffield Gardens group, Saturday July 24, noon-5pm
An urban garden owned by a professor of horticultural
At 20 Fournier Street, hidden behind the terrace of Huguenot merchant houses, built in 1726, is a small, walled, south-facing garden where fig and vines flourish. The paved courtyard has many pots of flowering shrubs and plants, adding height and colour to the old brick walls.
On this group open day you can also visit the courtyard of 37 Spital Square, on the site of the 12th-century priory of St Mary’s Spital, now the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, founded by William Morris in 1877.
Go on to visit a “vertical” garden and roof terrace in nearby Elder Street, an architect-designed garden in Wilkes Street, two more small courtyards in Fournier Street, and a larger garden in Princelet Street. ecology. A meadow-like design packed with unusual plants arranged in layers, creating interest all year. Many uncommon South African plants thrive outdoors in this northern city. Home-made teas nearby at 68 Tasker Road.