Visits 2026
Our first outing for 2026 was self-drive to Kapunda Plants in March. It was a predictably blustery day, but luckily the rain held off.
We were welcomed with an interesting talk on the history of the garden by owner Juliet Davis.
The hellebores were beautiful and the variety was incredible. The whole garden was a glorious reminder that Spring was on the way.
Purchases were made, and coffee and biscuits served in the conservatory rounded off a very social morning
_JPG.jpg)
At the beginning of June our visit was again self-drive, this time to Damson Farm, just outside Bath.
We were welcomed by owner Alison Jenkins who told us about the history of the garden and her plans for the future.
We then looked around the two acres of gentle hillside (in the rain, unlucky). There was a marvellous mixture of plants, vegetables and wild flowers.
After a delicious tea Alison talked us through the uses of the plants and unusual herbs she grows. All too soon it was time to leave.
Later in the month there was an all day coach trip to Gloucestershire.
In the morning we visited Charlton Down House near Tetbury, owned by Neil and Julie Record.
On arrival, over coffee and cake, we had a talk from them about the transformation of the garden and the difficulties they encountered.
We then toured around the walled garden, borders and topiary. The roses in the walled garden were spectacular.
After lunch at The Bell we went on to Daglingworth House near Cirencester.
We were greeted by Etta Howard who, with her husband David, showed us round a garden full of surprises. Wonderful views and clever planting, along with special water features, made this garden a joy.
The Saxon church was also well worth a visit.
After tea and more cake we headed home, full of new ideas.
Towards the end of July there was a self drive trip to Corsley House Gardens, outside Warminster. It is owned by Americans Keith Johnson and Glen Senk.
We were met by Jo Downes, the Head Gardener, who gave us an introductory talk. There was much to see, an exceptional walled garden
,ancient outbuildings, a granary and of course the sculpted wave lawn. Jo and her staff stayed with us to answer questions.
Excellent tea and cake for those who were flagging in the heat - that was all of us!
Our final visit of the year was in September. A coach trip to West Oxfordshire.
In the morning we visited Ham Court in Bampton. We were welcomed by owner Matthew Rice, author, artist and designer. He told about the history of the site and his current aims, we were then free to wander round a garden full of blooms, vegetables and fruit.
Truly inspiring.
We had lunch at a local pub and then went on to Langford Downs Farm near Lechlade, owned by Caroline and Gavin MacEchern.
We were greeted by Gary, the Head Gardener and shown round by knowledgeable friend Chipps Mann. Caroline joined us later.
Created from 2009, this was a garden of extensive tree planting, hedges and mixed borders. The colour palettes in the borders were quite beautiful.
The refreshments at both venues were greatly enjoyed.