Every garden needs a journey – Ideas from Melbourne Hall

I only wish I could convey my childlike joy, journeying through a garden of avenues & vistas with discoveries and options at every turn. Melbourne Hall gardens unfolded revealing delicious scents, pools & fountains, cloud pruned yew hedges, fine ironwork and statues. Finally, hidden within the dark formality an abundant, colourful garden with choice planting.

The Putti

Detail on ‘The Birdcage’

Another wonderful vista

The Four Seasons Monument

Detail on the Four Seasons Monument

Cloud pruned yew hedges

‘The Birdcage’ by Robert Bakewell

‘The Great Basin’ and the house in the distance

• Scent – often forgotten, but so rewarding, I like to add near to paths and doorways. Winter flowering scented plants are extra special.
• Frame a view – an archway, a dipped hedge revealing the borrowed landscape, or simple gaps in planting can set steer the route.
• A focal point – seats, trees, pots, statues, sculpture, see my Pinterest board for more ideas. http://pinterest.com/BrailsfordGdns/sculpture-and-ornament/
• Water – adds further dimensions for the senses; with reflections, sound and movement.

Climbing rose

Hydrangea opening

zingy lime planting -Rubus cockburnianus and Hydrangea paniculata ‘limelight’

Magnolia grandiflora

Waterside planting with the stunning Gunnera manicata

Melbourne Hall is open along with the garden and also has a visitors centre, and a brilliant tea room, checkout  www.melbournehall.com or www.facebook.com/MelbourneHallGardens  for more information.