Gardens in Winter 2000

Since we took over the property in a derelict condition in 1993, we have been determined to ensure that no artificial chemicals are used.  It took several years to clear the garden and part of the field of debris which had accumulated.  Soil that backed right onto the rear of the house was removed and dry stone walls repaired (removing several old sinks along the way!).  A muddy  hole at one end is now a wildlife pond which is kept well watered by a natural spring emanating from the top of the field.  This natural spring also fills a man-made well which we believe at one time supplied water to the little hamlet of Redmain.  

A small herb garden and old English rose garden replaces an overgrown patch closer to the house and is coming on well.  A further development in the garden is the addition of an enclosed fruit and vegetable area.  Although still in its infancy, we do expect to be picking organic fruit and vegetables by Summer 2000.  Naturally, we will be offering our produce for purchase to our guests as things become available.  We will be putting a colour picture of the layout on the Website early next year so please watch this space!  This area will also include flowers and sculptures and places to sit and relax.

We have planted some 80 native varieties of trees, which are now coming together to form the basis of a small wooded area.  Native varieties of wildflower have been encouraged to find a home and its amazing what appears courtesy of the birds!  So far, red and white clover, herb robert, cranesbill and several forms of geranium.  Campion, ragged robin, lady's smock (cardamine pratensis) in abundance, bluebells, oxeye daisies, snakeshead fritillaries, cowslips, primroses and for the first time last year the common spotted field orchid.  It would seem that a policy of doing very little has its own rewards.  The rest of the field area has been left well alone to see what else will appear.  It is not grazed or fed, and is only cut once towards the end of July each year for hay.  Simon, the farmer who cuts the field, says his cows love the variety of buttercups and daisies that perfume the hay!

We have tried to work with nature and to encourage what is already there, including wildlife and humans!  So there are plenty of areas to sit and quietly observe.  The placement of several bird nesting boxes this year, we hope, will give the birds a "des res" and help to keep down some of the unwanted insects.  The placement of an owl nesting house (can't really call it a box!) in one of the large Sycamore trees this year is an exciting development.  Should we be lucky enough to encourage a family of owls, we will be installing CCTV so all can watch the proceedings!

The whole area covers around two and a half acres and as the ground behind the house gently rises it gives wonderful views across the valley towards the mountains of Skiddaw and Grassmoor.  It is my favourite place to sit first thing in the morning and last thing at night.  Somehow, resting your eyes on a distant horizon is very relaxing.  As the peak of Summer approaches the sun doesn't disappear until almost 11pm.  It's a great way to cast off your cares from the day before you go to bed!

It is a wilder form of gardening, with some formal areas and we are constantly developing new ideas. There's always another plant to buy or that gorgeously scented rose you simply must have.  I don't suppose it will ever be finished!  We may have a tad more rain than the rest of England, but when the sun shines there isn't a better place to be!  You don't always have to walk miles - just take a picnic out into the garden and enjoy the view.