This year our 3 day tour took us to the Chilterns, stopping on the way at Waddesdon Manor.
The gardens were the vision of Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in the late 1800’s. The
grounds were extensive, with a parterre made up of very vibrant colours. There was a special
border planted this year, using 20,000 sedum plants, in memory of Jacob Rothschild who
died recently. Those who visited the manor, enjoyed the French 18th century decorative arts
and world-famous paintings.
In the afternoon we headed to Hughenden Manor, the home of Benjamin Disraeli from 1848
until his death in 1881. Most of his furniture, books and pictures still remain in the house.
We were given a talk on the history of Hughenden by a very enthusiastic guide. We then
made our way to our hotel, The Oxford Belfry, for 2 nights ½ board.
On day 2 we visited Ascott gardens, rich in topiaries and extensive yew hedging, sculptures
and fountains. The views across Aylesbury Vale were quite stunning.
In the afternoon we visited a private garden, in the middle of nowhere, where the owner
greeted us with delicious rhubarb cake with ice cream and tea. The garden was only about
1.5 acres, but was full of character and interesting history. The owner made us feel very
welcome.
After checking out of our hotel on day 3, we were taken to Waterperry Garden. The garden
dates back to the 1900’s, started by 2 women as a horticultural school. During the war it was
operating as a going concern, producing much needed food. Although now privatised, the
site is still used for study groups and retreats. Places of interest were the outdoor theatre,
museum, orchards, alpine, saxifrage and rose gardens and of course a reasonably priced
garden centre.
Our final stop was Wrest Park, with it’s grade 1 listed building and formal gardens
surrounding the mansion, with sweeping landscapes. There were scenic woodland walks,
but I don’t think any of us had the energy to do them.
The weather was very kind to us over the 3 days, and we consider ourselves lucky with the
timing of the tour. On our return, we had a 3 day heatwave.
Hanna Roberts
