The Cottage Garden is the newest part of the garden (planted up in spring 2024), and shows how much can be done in a smaller space. You do not need acres of land for big ideas. Next to it is an raised vegetable bed, full of vegetables, herbs and sweet peas in the summer. There are sheltered places to sit with a cup of tea, and enjoy this little bit of garden paradise. The main greenhouse is here too, and has a huge collection of scented geraniums, many coming from Lady Rose’s mother, whose house was full of them! A firm family favourite. There are also cacti and insect-eating succulents, and in summer a burst of bright red chili plants, a favourite of gardener Mike’s. Watch out if he tells you “they’re not that hot”!!
The courtyard used to be a rubbish dump, piled high with broken crockery and rubble. It took several years in the early 60s and many tractor loads to get rid of it all. The area was later home to two energetic pet pigs, four pygmy goats, many generations of chickens and eventually our two wonderful gardeners, who have their HQ here (definitely upgraded since the pigs!). The courtyard is filled with pots, hundreds of hostas, alpine garden troughs and the tempting plant sale tables. It is also the centre for big seasonal events such as the October Apple Day. It is the perfect place to end your visit, and leave with arms full of new plants!
The Fork Handles Cafe is also located here, where you can enjoy a light lunch, proper coffee and home-made cakes.
