GARDENS TO VISIT
FELLEY PRIORY, NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
The gardens at Felley Priory were created by the late Maria Chaworth-Musters in 1976. A knowledgeable plantswoman, she had the foresight to plant yew hedging and topiary that have given the garden structure and help shelter the herbaceous borders from prevailing winds. In spring, the extensive displays of daffodils in the orchard are utterly delightful and include a good number of rarities.
Other highlights are the bluebells in the woodland, magnolias, fritillaries, peonies and the more recent plantings of colourful tulips. felleypriory.co.uk
RHS WISLEY, SURREY
The Royal Horticultural Society’s flagship garden is home to one of the largest and most interesting collections of plants to be found anywhere. The garden’s remit is to inspire so there’s a huge diversity of gardening styles, both formal and informal, and numerous educational facilities, including the marvellous new research centre at Hilltop. In inclement weather, head for the Alpine House or Wisley Glasshouse – both delightful. The well-stocked nursery is also well worth a visit. rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley
KNIGHTHAYES COURT, DEVON
Just two miles’ drive from the market town of Tiverton, this 50-acre garden has one of the finest plant collections in the country with over 1,200 plant species unique to the garden. Surrounding a spectacular Victorian country house, the gardens – which were designed by Edward Kemp (1817-1891), then later developed extensively by the Heathcoat Amory family – feature formal terraces, woodland walks, and a walled kitchen garden. You’ll find rare trees and shrubs, extensive topiary and colourful seasonal displays including a fine collection of spring bulbs. nationaltrust.org.uk/knightshayes
LEVENS HALL, CUMBRIA
Remarkably, the 10-acre gardens at Levens Hall retain many of the features from the original design of the 1690s. Magnificent yew and box topiary are beautifully maintained in an array of geometric and quirky shapes, while the backdrop of the Elizabethan manor house built around a 13th-centry pele tower adds to the enchanting atmosphere. There’s also the first recorded ha-ha in England, a willow labyrinth and later on in the season spectacular herbacious borders. levenshall.co.uk