The Garden

The Queen Mother's Garden is designed along classical lines reflecting Penelope Hobhouse' interest in Islamic gardens. The result is a tranquil combination of still water, rich planting and cool shade.

An elegant arched pavilion is reflected in the still water of the central rectangular pool. It is surrounded by deep borders with sculptural plants such as tall, purple headed cardoons, deep blue Agapanthus, purple Verbena, scented roses and mauve alliums. In the late spring large terracotta pots are full of brightly coloured tulip varieties, such as 'Rem's Favourite', and the 'Paul's Scarlet' Hawthorn trees around the outside are full of rich red blossom. 

Setting a Trend

The opening of this garden in July 1997 was the first new garden created by English Heritage. It sparked a design programme of other contemporary gardens at English Heritage properties such as Lincoln Medieval Bishop's Palace and The Governor's Garden at Portland Castle in 2000 and 2002 respectively. More recently, 2009 saw the creation of the Princess Beatrice garden at Carisbrooke Castle, designed by former Gardener's World presenter and award winning garden designer Chris Beardshaw. The latest English Heritage garden to be unveiled was at Mount Grace Priory, and was also of his design, interpreting the arts and crafts garden that existed at the site historically.