We are enjoying the new season's gardening at The Botanic Garden at Wollaton. Open Sundays 2-4pm and Wed/Thu/Fri am if the gate is open.
In the morning we will visit Dorset House in the village of Cheslyn Hay.
This is described as ‘an inspirational half acre garden which incorporates country cottage planting at its very best. Hidden corners and water features all contribute to it being a haven of peace and tranquility.
There will be tea and biscuits .
We will spend lunchtime at the Hollybush Garden Centre and Aquarium with lots to see and a nice café.
In the afternoon we visit 12 Darges Lane nearby. In addition to being an enthusiastic plantswoman’s garden, I am told they are famous for their cakes!
There are many rare and unusual plants, hidden corners and artworks.
There may even be a quiz!
The day will be spent at the Great Longstone Village Open Gardens in Derbyshire. Longstone is one of a number of villages in Derbyshire opening their Gardens under the Floral Dales scheme.
15 to 16 gardens will be open with clusters around the village centre for those who prefer a short walk. Many of the gardens are close to the drop-off point in the village and so there is plenty for people with mobility problems.
Longstone Nursery will be open, situated near the village centre, specialising in high quality hardy perennials, ornamental grasses, herbs and shrubs all grown at the nursery.
Two pubs in the village centre both serve food, The Crispin Inn and the White Lion a gastro pub. Teas will be available in some gardens and depending on numbers attending, the Village Hall may open for light refreshments over lunch.
In the morning we travel to Saxby, Market Rasen, to visit Brightwater Gardens formerly The Garden House.
An 8-acre landscaped garden packed with interest with something for everyone, full of roses, peonies, perennials, prairie planting, a small lake, an arboretum with rarer trees, pictorial and wildflower meadows.
Hedging and walls enclose garden rooms with gravel paths and some steep slopes. Tea, Coffee and biscuits are included.
Following many requests we will be returning to Uncle Henry's Farm Shop and café over lunch. We last visited in 2012.
There will be time to browse in the shop and seating will be available for those taking their own refreshments. An Optional Guided.
A tour of the Walled Garden is included.
In the afternoon we return via North Leverton in Nottinghamshire to The Elms.
This garden is described as very different, creating an extension to the living space.
Inspiration comes from tropical countries, giving a Mediterranean feel. Palms, bamboos, and bananas along with other exotics, create drama and yet provide peace and calm. Paths include decking and tiled areas.
Tea and Cakes are included and there will be Plants for Sale.
The evening visit will take place from 6pm.
Elaine Walker, one of our members, has kindly agreed to open her garden at 125, Shelford Road, Radcliffe on Trent, NG12 1AZ
This unique Garden is open under the Yellow Book Scheme and our group last visited in 2005. There is just under 1/2 acre, intensely planted with many varieties of perennials, grasses, bulbs and shrubs and tender perennials in pots, colour themed beds and a jungle area with tropical style planting. Always something new to see.
The charge is £4.50 including tea and cake and there will be Plants for Sale.