There’s nothing quite so relaxing as a stroll among the flowerbeds, especially when the setting is a gorgeous country estate
THE OLD ENGLISH folk tune called ‘Country Gardens’, later known as ‘English Country Garden’, dates back to around 1728. It’s a celebration of the marvellous green spaces that are peppered across the country, listing the delights of daffodils, roses, snowdrops, forget-me-nots and tall hollyhocks, among others.
In many respects, it encapsulates England’s love affair with gardens extremely well and you might even find yourself humming the tune as you venture around one of these splendid landscapes today.
Country gardens make a brilliant place to stop and unwind while you’re away on a caravanning holiday, so to help you find one near you, we’ve got a round-up of some of our favourites – plus a top campsite to stay at!
Chelsea Flower Show ROYAL HOSPITAL CHELSEA, LONDON
Held annually since 1913, the Chelsea Flower Show, which is organised by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), is a showcase for great garden design. It’s a way to see emerging trends from around the world, check out new plants and be introduced to fresh gardening techniques.
Held in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, it is attended by more than 150,000 people each year and spread across five days – this year from 21-25 May.
Tickets are available from the RHS website (rhs.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-chelsea-flower-show) and prices vary, depending on which day you choose to visit. The first two days are only open to RHS members.
The show includes a range of prestigious awards for the best exhibits and there is a real buzz around the place.
Stay at… Crystal Palace CAMC site caravanclub.co.uk Note that this site is inside London’s Low Emission Zone
The Savill Garden EGHAM, SURREY
An enclosed part of Windsor Great Park, the 35-acre (14-hectare) Savill Garden was commissioned by George V in 1932. Created by Eric Savill, it opened to the public in 1951 and is known as an outstanding ornamental garden that retains strong royal connections. Visit the splendid award-winning Queen Elizabeth II Temperate House and the Golden Jubilee cottage garden, then take some time to check out the collection of 2500 plants in the Rose Garden, which was opened by Elizabeth II. You can also admire the stunnin
