Synopsis
Artfully-constructed, the garden integrates various levels harmoniously into the existing landscape of the foothills of the Welsh, Preseli mountains, maximising the impact of its beautiful surroundings. It encompasses a variety of different areas including bog-garden, patio-garden, double-border, wildflower-meadow, pond, river, woodland and orchard. A number of sculptures are also located throughout the Garden.
The original, stone farmhouse (now painted an earthy-pink), now has a sheltered, courtyard-style seating area next to it, with elegant water-feature. Another ruined building houses a Fernery. A small bothy/barn offers seating for visitors - and a small library! A cottage has been turned into holiday accommodation for those who wish to spend longer in the garden.
There is colourful planting all around the house: even the low, stone wall is used to grow succulents and numerous roses add colour and scents to all areas of the garden.. In the 'Orchard Garden', formal double-borders give a change of emphasis. The mildness of the climate is confirmed here with substantial, flowering trees like Embothrium coccineum (Chilean Fire-bush). Formality is achieved here through design, and the use of topiary and 'standard' shrubs throughout, complementing its 'lax' planting and the predominantly-soft colour scheme (pink, white, lilac, blue). In spring, Iris, Allium, Papaver, Salvia and Paeonia are amongst the perennials in flower here.
A 'Gravel garden' has been created nearby, set with a variety of potted plants, changed throughout the seasons (eg, Canna, Agave in spring).
The Bog Garden is a substantial area, with a network of narrow paths leading throughout; seating from which to enjoy it and the surrounding views; and both modern and contemporary artworks. The planting is exotic too, including Gunnera and Musa (Banana). A path leads from here down to the valley bottom , and around a substantial Pond. An alternative route back to the entrance goes through a grove of Silver Birch (Betula), and a field planted with a selection of autumn grasses. There are other, carefully-managed areas too: the highest part of the garden, the 'Magic' Garden' with wildflowers and mossy rocks; and the 'Cwm', the valley bottom, with a small bridge over the river.
|
|
