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house imageHonnington Farm Gardens have been created out of the gently undulating landscape, over 20 years, by Ann Tyler.  The 7 acres of mixed formal and wilder, more natural areas have been developed through a plantswoman’s love of colour and a determination to preserve and encourage wildlife.  Outside of the garden, Ann has planted some 50 acres of native woodland, created hedgerows and dug ponds, and all of this can be enjoyed not only by the wildlife but also by walkers and horse riders.

 

Within the garden, more unusual trees have been planted for wind protection allowing more exotic plants to co-exist with the swathes of colourful perennials.  A bank of young Malus protect a wildflower meadow and a natural swimming pool that is filtered by native bogplants.  The deep panoply of trees produce many shaded areas with unusual underplantings. 

 

lake imageThere are 2 natural lakes.  One is home to about 50 ducks and a migrant flock of Canada geese who join in a noisy feeding time at about 3pm.  The other lake is fed from a small stream that meanders through a bog garden, producing a waterfall in the wetter months.  The bank is home to a large golden Willow, which trails its branches among the Waterlilies and is surrounded by Gunnera, Rodgersia and Ligularia.  Moorhens and Coots hide among the reeds.  A grey Heron can be found every morning feeding on the Carp and the occasional flash of sparkling blue shows the Kingfisher has the same tastes.

 

There is more than a nod towards the fashionable European prairie-style naturalism lavender imageas seen in the use of grasses with perennials, which blend with the wilder areas.  The heavy clay soil supports many fine Rose specimens and climbers ramble over arbours and pergolas with gravel paths providing a quiet foil to the tumbling edges of Nepeta, Alchemilla and Lavender.

 

Sculptures from our resident sculptor are nestled in borders or at the end of a view.  Work in progress can be viewed with prior arrangement.

 

Particularly fine in spring, with a primrose walk, glades of snowdrops and banks of hellebores, the garden is open for the National Gardens Scheme.

 

However, we are always happy to show groups around any time of the year.

 

Facilities and important information

 

roses imagePlease call Sian on 07780 800790 for any information or to book a visit.

  • Pre-booked lunches & teas available.
  • Picnic area with far reaching views.
  • Lakes with wild fowl (bird feeding by arrangement).
  • The gravels paths unfortunately are not suitable for wheelchair users.
  • Plant sales on open days. 
  • Cuttings taken on request.
  • Plant crèche for housemovers.
  • Resident sculptor.