Explore RHS GARDEN BRIDGEWATER with its designer TOM STUART-SMITH

Meet the landscape architect and tour his creation, plus visit some of the north-west’s best gardens

One of the biggest gardening projects in Europe, RHS Garden Bridgewater is due to open to the public in May 2021 and you could be among the first to visit on this exclusive four-day tour. Making it even more unforgettable, you’ll be joined by the man behind the vision for the project, landscape architect Tom Stuart-smith, who will take a tour of the garden with you, followed by afternoon tea, a talk from Tom and a Q&A session.

Your holiday will also take in some of the finest gardens in the north-west, including Trentham Estate – with gardens designed by Tom – Dunham Massey and Tatton Park. You’ll visit Ness Botanic Gardens in the Wirral, with their own weather station, and Arley Hall, where a pair of herbaceous borders were first laid in 1846.

THE HIGHLIGHTS

EXCLUSIVE EVENTS WITH TOM STUART-SMITH

Tom, who has designed eight gold medalwinning gardens for the Chelsea Flower Show, will join you for a tour of RHS Garden Bridgewater, the plan for which he designed. He’ll also deliver an exclusive talk and answer your horticultural questions.

TOUR TRENTHAM ESTATE

You’ll begin with a visit to the Staffordshire gardens where the contemporary revival of the Italian Gardens was led by Tom. Explore the Piet Oudolf-designed Rivers of Grass and Floral Labyrinth, and Trentham Lake, created by Capability Brown.

DELIGHTFUL GARDENS

Ness Botanic Gardens feature lilies, primulas and terrace gardens with climbing plants, plus herb and water gardens in summer. Dunham Massey was planted in regimental fashion by the 2nd Earl of Stamford and Warrington before being abandoned in 1856. Crystal Palace architect Joseph Paxton designed aspects of Tatton Park. You’ll also visit Arley Hall’s beautifully maintained gardens.