Celebrating Britain’s herb gardens
Some of Britain’s historic herb gardens are offering visitors an opportunity to discover the culinary and medicinal benefits of herbs.
Hestercombe Gardens
Last September saw the first ‘A Celebration of Herbs’ event at Hestercombe Gardens (www.hestercombegardens.com/) in Somerset. The event brought together an array of leading herb specialists and offered visitors a chance to sample and buy products as well as see demonstrations and stroll through the splendid 18th-century garden designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. The organisers hope to make this an annual event, so make sure you check their website for updates.
Gardening tours & courses
If you also want to experience gardening in style then think about gardeners’ tours and courses at some of von Essen’s country house hotels (www.vonessenhotels.com/) who are celebrating their own herb gardens where chefs help themselves daily for their restaurant’s menus. At Congham Hall in Norfolk, Green Finger Training Courses give an insight into the 700 herbs planted in the garden and at The Greenway near Cheltenham a Floral Demonstration and Garden tour allows guests to taste the produce during a delicious two course lunch.
Get your Great British Heritage Pass
For any of you garden lovers or those planning a history or heritage themed trip around Britain, the essential "buy before you leave" product is the Great British Heritage Pass. Providing free entry into over 580 castles, gardens and stately homes across the length and breadth of Britain, it really is the key to unlocking Britain's secrets.
For full details and to order click here.