The beauty of England’s gardens is world-renowned, and for those who have a passion for horticulture, a tour of the country’s most stunning gardens is a dream come true. From May 25th to June 1st, a group of garden enthusiasts embarked on a journey through some of England’s most exquisite gardens, learning from the experts and immersing themselves in the beauty of nature.
Day 1: Arrival in England
The tour members independently made their way to Heathrow Airport and checked into the Hilton London Heathrow Airport at Terminal 4, where a room was booked for them as part of the tour package. In the evening, the group gathered for a welcome dinner in the hotel restaurant, setting the stage for the adventures to come.
Day 2: Travel to Bath and Caisson Gardens
After breakfast at the hotel, the group boarded a coach to Bath, where they checked into the Indigo Hotel Bath for the next six nights. The first garden tour of the trip took place at Caisson Gardens, a scenic blend of nature, history, and art. The group embarked on a walk-and-talk tour of the beautifully restored landscapes, learning about the gardens’ rich history and regenerative practices.
Lunch was catered in the gardens, providing a delightful dining experience surrounded by nature. After returning to the hotel, the group had the evening free to explore the local dining options in Bath.
Day 3: Yeo Valley Organic Garden and a Hands-on Workshop
The day started with breakfast at the hotel before boarding a coach to the Blagdon Lake region. At Yeo Valley Organic Farm and Gardens, the group enjoyed a cup of tea or coffee before embarking on an immersive experience in sustainable farming and organic gardening. A hands-on workshop led by Nicola Hope provided insight into biodiversity and organic processes in harmony with nature.
Lunch and afternoon tea featuring organic products from Yeo Valley were provided before returning to the hotel for a free evening.
Day 4: The Private Garden of James Hitchmough, Visit to Wildside with Keith Wiley
After breakfast at the hotel, the group headed south to Devon to visit the private garden of Dr. James Hitchmough. Tea and cake were served upon arrival, followed by a tour of the colorful landscape and diverse planting. The group continued to Wildside Gardens for a guided tour of the innovative landscape inspired by natural landscapes.
Returning to Bath, the group enjoyed dinner at the hotel restaurant, reflecting on the day’s garden discoveries.
Day 5: Garden of Alison Jenkins, the Derry Watkins Home Garden, Special Plants Nursery
The day began with breakfast at the hotel before heading to Northend, Somerset to visit Damson Farm, the home garden of horticulturist Alison Jenkins. Lunch was served in the garden, followed by a visit to the home garden of nurserywoman Derry Watkins and Special Plants Nursery next door.
Dinner at the hotel restaurant capped off a day filled with exploration and inspiration in the world of gardening.
Day 6: Hauser & Wirth Designed by Piet Oudolf and Visit to Common Farm Flowers
The group enjoyed breakfast at the hotel before heading to Somerset to visit Hauser & Wirth Somerset, an immersive art experience featuring rotating exhibitions and a vibrant outdoor sculpture garden designed by Piet Oudolf. Lunch at the Roth Bar & Grill was followed by a visit to Common Farm Flowers for tea and a demo on creating hand-tied bouquets.
Dinner at the hotel restaurant concluded the day’s activities, leaving the group inspired by the intersection of art and nature.
Day 7: Free Time in Bath, and Annie Guilfoyle Lecture
With a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, the group had free time to explore the historic city of Bath. Lunch was available at the hotel restaurant before returning for a group dinner and a lecture by tour guide Annie Guilfoyle on highlights and design ideas from the Chelsea Flower Show.
Day 8: Departure from Bath and Transport to Heathrow
The tour concluded with an early morning breakfast at the hotel before boarding a coach to London Heathrow Airport. Tour members had the option to return home or continue their adventures in England.
In conclusion, the garden tour of England offered a unique opportunity for garden enthusiasts to explore some of the country’s most beautiful and innovative gardens, learn from experts in the field, and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Each day was filled with new discoveries, inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for the art of gardening. For those who have a passion for horticulture, a garden tour of England is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
