About the Garden

Back in 1983 Julie and I got married and moved into 45 Waterhouse Lane and with no experience in gardening, we started from scratch. Like many inexperienced gardeners we had lots of failures but with many visits to gardens, books and most importantly gardening advice from family and friends, the garden changed and developed. I took over the main work in the garden when we had our two boys – however Julie still contributed her views and ideas and together it worked. The two original lawns were increasingly eroded with the addition of flowerbeds until they were, in effect, pathways. In 2006 we covered the remaining grass with 10 tonnes of gravel. For many years we had used the water in the well for a simple water pot feature, but we felt that we could use this wonderful source better, and acting on this idea in 2007 we created a small pond and stream which is fed by the spring water in the well; consequently the water keeps crystal clear. Over the years we collected many old gardening tools and arranged a display which is lit at night. In 2011 we were able to buy back the original end of our garden which has now been developed into a production area with two greenhouses , a potting area and two beehives. Our main love is plants – integrating them in an evolving and creative manner to create a garden we love and enjoy. The garden is used by family and friends all the time; whether it is for a cup of tea, barbecue or party. In 2009 we started opening the garden for the National Garden Scheme and by 2013 we had raised over £11,000 through day openings and illuminated evening openings, which include canapés cooked by Julie and live entertainment. We love sharing our garden with others and as such, creating a blog so that anybody can look at and enjoy the garden seemed like a natural step!

- Peter.