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DAY TWO
The eight acres of Brobury House Gardens are set against a sculptural backdrop of mature trees on a particularly beautiful section of the River Wye. Paths lead through formal and natural planting to the watermeadow beside the historic Bredwardine Bridge. The garden was first established when the house was built in 1881. The trees and terraces gave the structure to the gardens that still exists. Grand greenhouses were built and half of these have been restored. Prior to 1881 the site was used as the vegetable garden for the rectory where Francis Kilvert lived and died. His mulberry tree still graces the main terrace lawn.
Plants of note - Wisteria, cornus kousa, stand of paper birches. Magnificent oak and Victorian cedars and pines.
AFTERNOON
For lunch head to Oakchurch Farm Shop with a restaurant that utilising the best of Herefordshire’s finest produce including roast Herefordshire beef and homemade cakes. You could even try a local cider! There will also be opportunity to buy any plants that catch your eye.
Next stop is Herefordshire’s best National Trust Garden, The Weir. The Weir was established in the 1920s by Roger Parr and his head gardener, Boulter. It covers around 10 acres of sloping land along the River Wye, with excellent views to the Black Mountains of Wales. The garden is at its best from early Spring to Autumn, when the colours at their peak. The Weir definitely qualifies as a hidden gem.
DAY THREE
Today we visit yet another gem, hidden within a major attraction, Hereford Cathedral. Explore the cathedral’s most beautiful gardens with their experienced gardeners and guides. Throughout the year from Spring to Autumn, Hereford’s horticultural significance is well reflected in these award winning gardens.
Free time has been allocated to explore the Cathedral city. With its many attractions, restaurants, cafes and river walks, you will be spoilt for choice.
After lunch, head south to visit the largest private formal garden to be created in England since 1945 owned by art historian Sir Roy Strong - The Laskett Gardens. The garden has been transformed from a four acre field into a series of stunning garden rooms, vistas, ascents and descents. These include a rose garden, pleached lime avenue, orchard, kitchen garden, knot garden, fountains, statuary and parterres as well as a spectacular array of topiary and rich herbaceous and prairie style borders. Entry includes the beautifully illustrated plan by Jonathan Myles-Lea and also an audio guide.
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