The impressive topiary-framed Italianate formal gardens at Mapperton
There is nothing quite so lovely as an English country garden at its peak of perfection in early summer, so imagine my delight when I was offered the chance to explore several of the most exquisite examples in a particularly picturesque corner of the south west on the inaugural G&T Garden Tour.
This feast of floriferous treats was dreamt up by two local friends, Simon Tiffin and Jason Goodwin – both wordsmiths by profession and garden aficionados – keen to share their passion for the glorious gardens, fabulous food and beautiful landscapes of west Dorset, the enchanting spot they are lucky enough to call home. Tucked between Somerset, Devon and the Jurassic Coast, the region’s evocative scenery, pretty-as-a-picture villages and fascinating history provided the perfect backdrop for a blissful week of horticultural outings.
Simon and Jason’s expert knowledge of the area and its cultural hinterland enabled them to curate a brilliantly beguiling itinerary in which the grandeur of ancestral estates was deftly juxtaposed with visits to enchanting private gardens. And their impeccable local connections meant that not only were we allowed rare, privileged access to many gardens not usually open to the public but we were warmly welcomed by the owners of these gems.
Among the big hitters were the magnificent parkland and grounds of Forde Abbey, which have gradually evolved over 900 years and include elegant vistas, a Victorian walled garden, colourful herbaceous borders and an impressive kitchen garden and arboretum. At Jacobean manor house Mapperton, we were charmed by its formal Italianate gardens, framed by eye-catching topiary – and by the irrepressible Countess
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