Nov 2014 Restoration of the Gardens of Wimpole Estate – Philip Whaites

At the Club’s last meeting Philip Whaites, Head Gardener, delivered a splendid presentation full of beautiful pictures of the many aspects of the estate. The most recent development is the restoration of the ‘Folly’ the iconic landmark which has been restored to its former ruinous state (!) thanks mainly to the charity Natural England (!) Over the summer months tours of the Grade 2 listed tower have been arranged for intrepid visitors to climb the steps and to enjoy from the scaffolding platform the panoramic view across the parkland towards the mansion.

For over 30 years Philip has tended the twenty-acre garden with the 350-acre park beyond. The garden has undergone several phases of landscape and garden design since the 17th century. The park has been landscaped by Bridgeman, `Capability´ Brown and Repton. Philip has scoured the country for suitable trees to add to the already extensive range – Wimpole already proudly holds the national collection of walnut trees.There is a formal garden surrounding the house, dating from the 17th century – enclosed by iron railings it includes an informal rose garden, a Dutch garden planted with anemone blanda and hardy fuchsia as well as a restored parterre. Philip has brought up-to-date methods to his work including battery-charged back packs (charged with solar panels) to cope with the seven miles of box hedging. Alan Shipp, the famous Waterbeach horticulturist plants up the hyacinth bed every year – don’t miss it next March! Even earlier in the year you will see the Rectory garden full of snowdrops followed by a wonderful display of violets, orchids, primroses and later on the naturalised camassia in the pleasure grounds. Tasting session of tomatoes are often held in the Walled Garden and currently you will see a display of fascinating gourds.

Plans for the future include the development of more new paths, a stumpery, the restoration of John Soane’s glasshouse, further excavation in the old yard where there may have been a pineapple house.

This short article just does not do justice to the estate. At any time of the year there is plenty to see at Wimpole – I urge you to take a look yourself.

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