The allure of lost gardens and hidden paradises has captivated humans for centuries. From the ruins of Roman and monastic gardens to the destruction caused by wars and neglect, the history of British gardening is filled with tales of lost beauty and forgotten landscapes. However, in recent decades, a movement towards rediscovering and restoring these lost treasures has emerged, bringing back to life some of England’s most enchanting green spaces.
One of the most famous examples of a lost garden that has been rediscovered is The Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall. These gardens were hidden for decades until a devastating hurricane cleared some of the overgrowth, revealing a once magnificent estate. Today, Heligan is a popular visitor attraction, showcasing the beauty of its pleasure grounds, sub-tropical jungle, productive gardens, and ancient woodlands. The restoration of Heligan not only celebrates the beauty of nature but also pays tribute to the lives of the men who tended the gardens before World War I.
Another hidden gem is Warley Place in Essex, once the extravagant landscape of eccentric plantswoman Ellen Willmott. Known for her horticultural extravagance and irascibility, Willmott’s garden is now a shadow of its former self, with ruins peeking through overgrown trees and wildflowers. Despite its decline, Warley Place still offers a glimpse into a lost Edwardian idyll, with drifts of snowdrops, daffodils, bluebells, and rhododendrons enchanting visitors throughout the year.
In Norwich, the Plantation Garden is a Victorian fantasy created by wealthy cabinet maker Henry Trevor. Abandoned after World War II, the garden was saved from creeping wilderness by a group of enthusiasts who formed the Plantation Garden Preservation Trust. Today, visitors can witness the extraordinary journey of the garden, from being blanketed in brambles and ivy to its current state of beauty and serenity.
Painshill Park in Surrey is another example of a lost garden that has been rescued from total disintegration. Once rivaling the likes of Stourhead and Stowe, Painshill’s 158 acres were visited by dignitaries and even inspired a Wedgewood dinner service for Catherine the Great of Russia. Thanks to a group of volunteers, the myriad follies, towers, gazebos, and lake vistas of Painshill have been saved from oblivion, allowing visitors to explore its enchanting landscape and sparkling Crystal Grotto.
The Queen’s Orchard in Greenwich and Avery Hill Winter Garden in Eltham are two more hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The Queen’s Orchard, once a secret corner of Greenwich Park, is now home to an ancient mulberry tree surrounded by heritage varieties of Kentish fruit. Avery Hill Winter Garden, built by Colonel John Thomas North, showcases exotic plants from around the world in a magnificent palm house.
In conclusion, the rediscovery and restoration of lost gardens in England offer a glimpse into the past and a chance to reconnect with nature’s beauty. These hidden paradises, once forgotten, are now thriving once again, inviting visitors to explore their enchanting landscapes and rich histories. The quest to uncover more lost gardens continues, fueling our primal yearning to tame nature and preserve these precious green spaces for future generations to enjoy.