£41.50 (Non JG member)
Overview
The serene six-acre water garden was originally created by the Beddington family during the early 1900s. It became part of the estate in 1942, and has been nurtured and developed ever since – transforming it into “the finest water garden in the world”, according to the International Waterlily & Water Gardening Society. John Spedan Lewis spent much of his later life in the garden, and for good reason; it’s an incredibly vibrant, tranquil and beautiful place to visit that attracts visitors from all over the world. With crystal-clear waters and lush greenery, the water garden connects the two islands and woodland valleys of Longstock and Leckford. It provides the perfect habitat for countless wildlife species and is the ideal spot for animal lovers and birdwatchers alike. Take a quiet moment to yourself and indulge in the stunningly serene atmosphere of the water garden. The water garden is home to a significant plant collection, including over 100 different trees and 40 different water lily species alone. As a knowledgeable and passionate naturalist, Spedan Lewis chose specific plants to complement the four seasons. Keep an eye out for crown imperials; rhododendrons; and swamp cypress. Our 80-metre-long herbaceous border and walled garden should provide you with some stunning ideas. You’ll find all the plants we’ve used right here and ready to buy. Covered in climbing clematis, and with a gorgeous fruit-tree archway, our border has become an impressive attraction for visitors from all over the world. We will make a refreshment stop in Stockbridge where there are various places to find an early lunch