There is on display a series of model gardens representing different styles in English garden history. These were built as part of the BBC TV series "Gardens through Time" in 2004. The queen mothers lake which has in recent times been extended and no doubt will mature into a beautiful setting. The vegetable gardens were delightful. Study centres and exhibition rooms are on site and appear well utilised. The place is disability and child friendly. There is a plant nursery (albeit expensive) and restaurant on site. There is an entrance fee to pay but this was waived for our visit.
I found the planting to be well designed and well cared for but felt the intimacy of a garden had been lost, being replaced by the character of a public park. Perhaps its valley setting or reliance on vista views contributed to that. It had its impressive moments but was not as breathtakingly beautiful as Arley, Levens Hall or Sissinghurst which still rank as my top favourite English gardens.
Here are some snapshots of a visit last year I think I have some better ones in my archives and I will upload those in due course. I hope you enjoy the photos.
