Hidcote Manor Garden is one of England’s great gardens. It was the life’s passion of one man, self-taught gardener Lawrence Johnston who created his ‘garden of rooms’ here.

Johnston designed Hidcote as a series of outdoor ‘rooms’, which combine sensuous masses of colour with traditional garden crafts such as topiary. Each room has its own distinct atmosphere and character.

The hedges that divide the rooms sprung up due to the plot’s exposed aspect. Johnston planted hedges of holly, beech, hornbeam and yew for shelter and structure.

Exotic plants
As well as a gardener, Lawrence Johnston was an accomplished plantsman. The range of plants he used was huge.

In a never-ending quest, he secured rare and exotic species by sponsoring and taking part in plant hunting expeditions. Trips took him to the Alps, Kenya and South Africa. He also plant-swapped with the Australians and the Japanese.

So, ..relax and unwind in one of the country’s great gardens and experience for yourself the fulfilment of a quiet American’s English fantasy. You’ll never forget the exquisite garden rooms, each with its own unique character. Discover rare shrubs and trees, herbaceous borders and unusual plants from around the world. The garden changes in harmony with the seasons, from vibrant spring bulbs to autumn’s spectacular Red Border. Nestled in the Cotswolds with sweeping views across the Vale of Evesham, a visit to Hidcote is inspirational at any time of year.

For more information on Hidcote Gardens please see: Hidcote Gardens NT Website