Behind the scenes at Witley Court & Gardens

Mon, Jan 14, 2013 17:14 CET

Meet the Head Gardener: Winter Walk on 18 January

Garden enthusiasts who are entranced by changing vista and seasonal colour will be in their element later this month, when Witley Court’s Head Gardener, Richard Squires, will be leading a tour on Friday 18 January examining the ‘bones’ of the formal garden, including the architectural sculpting of the yew hedge and topiary in the East Parterre, and looking at the witch hazel and early snowdrops in bloom.

The formal gardens at Witley Court are often regarded as one of Victorian landscaper, William Andrews Nesfield’s finest works, and large sections have been restored back to their Victorian splendour, whilst other parts of the site have become havens for wildlife and wildflowers, thanks to the hard endeavours of Richard and his team.

“We’ve heard lots of talk of 2012 being the wettest year on record, but for one of Witley Court’s staple shrubs – the rhododendron – it has been a great year, with plenty of leaf growth thanks to the damp conditions and mild winter. If we get a suitably warm spring, like we enjoyed in 2012, we should be looking forward to a bumper display this year,” comments Richard.

The Winter Walks take place from 10.00am to 11.30am and 1.00pm to 2.30pm on Friday 18 January. Prices are £15 per person, or £10 for English Heritage members, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions of Richard during the walk. Again, places are limited so booking is essential; please call 0870 333 1183 to reserve a place.

Witley Court & Gardens are also open every weekend throughout the winter months from 10.00am to 4.00pm. Admission prices are £6.50 for adults, £5.90 for concessions and £3.90 for children, or £16.90 for a family ticket (two adults and up to three children). English Heritage members get in free. For more details, please visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/witley or call 01299 896636.

ENDS

For further media information, please contact:

Jay Commins – PRO English Heritage (West Midlands)

Tel: 01904 500698

Mob: 07810 546567

Email: jay@pyperyork.co.uk