NEWS FEED
Cranborne Gardens open weekend 18-19 June
The beautiful and varied Gardens of Cranborne will be open for visitors on the weekend of 18-19 June. From the famous Cranborne Manor gardens, originally designed by John Tradescant in the 17th century, and the wonderful 18th century Number 10 Castle Street (formerly Cranborne Lodge), through elegant period and modern homes to much-loved cottage gardens, there is something for everyone in this delightful and historic Dorset village.
Highlights of the many gardens opening include:
Cranborne Manor Gardens: designed by John Tradescant in the early 17th century, the structure follows a pattern of ‘rooms’, delineated by hedges or walls and softened by billowing herbaceous borders.
Number 10 Castle Street: this imposing 18th century country house boasts a magnificent formal garden with a series of grass terraces rising gently from the house. Borders are planted with shrubs, old roses and herbaceous plants.
Red Lion House: a delightful private garden which is chemical-free and uses the principles of bio-dynamic horticulture. The herbaceous borders, rose, herb and vegetable gardens are designed to reflect the local environment.
Manor View House: this wonderful late-Georgian house boasts a beautiful walled garden, with a mass of repeat planting surrounding variegated standard hollies. Deep borders are planted with a mixture of shrubs, perennials and roses.
The Old Vicarage: a mature garden with views to the church and Cranborne Manor. A natural swimming pond provides a habitat for wild life.
Bank House: a typical Edwardian small walled garden with a vine, herbaceous plantings, roses, shrubs and climbing plants.
Chase Cottage: featuring a huge mulberry tree, colourful mixed borders and a delightful garden studio displaying textile works.
Cranborne Allotments: tilled since the early part of the 19th century, these 24 plots are a wonderful example of local endeavour, with views over the rooftops, church spire and rolling fields.
The gardens will be open from 11am to 5pm on the Saturday and Sunday (number 10 Castle Street open Sunday only). Entry is £8 for adults; children free. There will be a wide range of stalls and activities in the village during the weekend, including maypole dancing. Refreshments will be available including ploughman’s lunches and teas in the village hall. The event is being held in aid of church funds.
