In our August meeting we were given an insight into the history of Capel Manor in Enfield. It was given by Anne Luder, a past student and then a lecturer for 25 years. The gardens on the estate were planted in the 12th century and over time had many royal connections. The name comes from Sir William Capel who bought the estate in 1486. It was once a very prestigious country house owned by Queen Elizabeth I. Over the centuries the estate changed hands many times and the Manor was rebuilt. The last private ownership was the Warren family, known for the Assam tea plantation. When the Warrens died, the estate faced neglect. So, in 1968 a local horticulturalist established it as Capel Manor College offering environmental studies.
In 1985 Princess Anne opened a department of animal management and saddlery and since then it has expanded its variety of courses including a mini zoo. The site has over 30 themed gardens with pillars and stones salvaged from Chelsea to construct features like follies. In 2008 the Queen Mother visited to see a garden dedicated to her, followed by Queen Elisabeth II in 2010 to open a folly. The gardens are open to the public with many events being held in the grounds as well as teaching students of all ages on environmental and horticultural topics.
