The Rock & Water Gardens

This outstanding example of the Arts and Crafts style of landscape design uses a combination of rock-work and water to create a realistic landform giving views from and under the bridges.

Many tonnes of red sandstone and grey limestone were used to create two contrasting areas, separated by ponds and waterfalls. Mature specimens of “dwarf” conifers are interspersed with a huge variety of perennials, such as Rudbeckia ‘Goldsturm’, Lamprocapnos spectabilis (Bleeding Heart), Stipa tenuissima, and Libertia grandiflora. Shrubs such as Hypericum (Magical Series) provide plump autumn berries, and the bees adore the majestic self-seeded Echium pininana. With careful planning over the years, there is interest for all seasons, including autumn leaf colour from Prunus ‘Pandora’ and spring colour from species bulbs such as Tulipa batalinii and Tulipa clusiana. It is thought to be one of the largest privately owned rock gardens in the country.

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