Bourton Hill House, Bourton-on-the-Hill is surrounded by its immediate three-acre garden and a seven acre walled pasture, populated by specimen trees. In 1953 the house and land were sold at auction and there followed a quick succession of six owners, until 1983 when the house was acquired by the Paices. The transformation of the neglected garden took place over a twenty five year time frame, and led to the beautiful garden that can be seen today.

In 2010, Bourton House Garden came under new ownership but has continued to remain open for the enjoyment of garden visitors.

The garden continually evolves, constantly surprising visitors with its inspirational planting, stunning colour combinations and rare, unusual and exotic plants. In 2013, a walk was opened in the seven acre pasture opposite the garden enabling visitors to enjoy the groups of specimen trees planted in 1994/95. A guide to the trees written by Paul Nicholls is available to all visitors to the garden.

Head Gardener Paul Nicholls retired in March 2018 after almost twenty years leading the gardening team.  The Head Gardener is now Jacky Rae, who worked alongside Paul for many years, assisted by Sandra Morris and Glenn Butler.

2021 saw the advance of box blight in the garden despite the best efforts of the gardening team. A decision was made to remove the worst affected plants and to re-design the Knot Garden and the Parterre over a period of 2 years. This unsolicited change has been embraced as an opportunity to create something different, but of equal beauty, for the next thirty years.

The garden really is a horticultural gem, with inspired and imaginative planting throughout the whole year, expansive herbaceous borders, topiary, spring fed water features and an unusual shade house.

Imaginative topiary was introduced; natural springs used to create water features; an unusual shade house constructed and ever wider herbaceous borders created to accommodate more exotica.

The Garden is now open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday; 10am to 5pm (not open public holidays); until the end of October 2023. £9.00 pp. Card payment preferred on the gate. Car Park opposite.

https://www.bourtonhouse.com/

Astall Manor, Burford, Oxfordshire OX18 4HW

Once home to the Mitford sisters, Astall Manor is an historic house on the River Windrush with exceptional gardens. The gardens, together with the kitchen garden, were designed and largely planted by Isabel and Julian Bannerman in the late 1990s.

The aim was to construct a garden which flowed into the valley, combining form and freedom with open views and secret spaces. Long walks are bordered with yew, large beeches hide a beautiful, secluded lake, orchards run down to the mill stream and together with stone urns tumbling with roses and a formal parterre, the garden offers an unparalleled setting in which to exhibit sculpture. Indeed, the entrance to Astall Manor is noted for the sculpture on the gateposts, by Anthony Turner.

Home to on from, Astall Manor hosts a biennial month long sculpture show in the gardens every summer. This is the principal opportunity to visit the garden, however there are additional openings under The National Gardens Scheme and other events. The grounds and ballroom are regularly used for exciting horticultural workshops and gardening courses.

01993 824319 info@onformsculpture.co.uk  https://www.asthallmanor.com/garden/

Cerney House Gardens, North Cerney, Cirencester GL7 7BX

Cerney House Gardens are beautiful Cotswold gardens in the heart of Gloucestershire. They predominantly comprise a romantic Victorian walled garden, which is maintained organically and features large herbaceous borders with overflowing with colour.

The garden was extensively renovated in 1983, and it showcases vegetables creatively planted amongst flowers and herbs together with fruit trees. Cerney House is also a lovely garden for snowdrops in February, as it  has nearly 150 varieties on display.

The garden is known for its peaceful and tranquil atmosphere and offers horticulturalists   an extensive range of unusual plants and flowers, including irises, roses, and exotic species from around the world. The garden's ponds, streams, and water features add to the serenity of the setting.

The garden offers a range of activities and events throughout the year, including guided tours and gardening workshops.

Visiting times: Cerney House Gardens is open to visitors from April to October, on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday, from 2 pm to 6 pm. Please note that the garden may be closed on certain days during the year, and it's always a good idea to check the garden's website or contact them directly for up-to-date information on opening times, admission prices, and special events. Additionally, advance booking may be required for entry to the garden during peak times or for special events.

https://www.cerneygardens.com/