Hidcote was aquired by the National Trust in 1948, when Lawrence Waterbury Johnston, who made the garden the garden at Hidcote departed permanently for his garden in France.
It was an important acquisition, important not only because of its quality, but because it was the first property that the Trust acquired specifically on account of its garden. Here the Trust learned to garden.*
Hidcote is an Arts and Crafts garden in the north Cotswolds, a stone’s throw from Stratford-upon-Avon. Created by the talented American horticulturist, Major Lawrence Johnston its colourful and intricately designed outdoor ‘rooms’ are always full of surprises. It’s a must-see if you’re on holiday in the Cotswolds.
Explore the maze of narrow paved pathways and discover secret gardens, magnificent vistas and plants that burst with colour. Many of the plants found growing in the garden were collected from Johnston’s many plant hunting trips to far away places. It’s the perfect place if you’re in need of gardening inspiration.
Find a quiet spot and sit on one of the ornate benches and watch green woodpeckers search for their lunch or listen to the calls from the buzzards circling overhead. Time it right and you might catch a glimpse of the elusive hummingbird moth.
Meander through the intricate gardens and into the Wilderness. This secluded stretch of tall trees is just right for a picnic. Take a glimpse beyond the boundary and see the garden blend effortlessly into the countryside beyond.
The Monarch’s Way path runs close-by. Follow it for a brief time from the car park and into the chocolate-box Cotswold hamlet of Hidcote Bartrim. You’ll be treated to traditionally thatched stone cottages that were once home to Johnston’s gardeners. They’re now owned by the Trust and rented out.
*From the Hidcot Manor Garden National Trust Handbook
there has been much care maintaining these gardens Cherie… i like this presentation….peter:)
Thank you Peter The gardens are well worth a visit.
Imagine being able to leave one garden like this for another, Cherie
It would be a great thing to do
I LOVE LOVE LOVE your English gardens, Cherry, wherever they are. This one is splendid, of course, but I’m totally absorbed by that “hanging” at the bottom of your post.
Nice to see you Ginnie I am quite mesmerised by that too, I couldn’t find out any information about it!
Gorgeous isn’t it. One of my favourite gardens.
It was my first visit and I loved it
Lovely place, we’ve been there several times.
It is a lovely place and I hope to visit again
an interesting garden, i enjoyed this walk through your eyes
I am glad you enjoyed it
What a lovely garden!
It certainly is