HERMITAGE COMMUNITY GARDEN

Morrisons first thing this morning.  Quick turnaround when I got home and then I was off out again to see the podiatrist at the Health Centre in the village.  All was Ok with my feet.

Instead of coming straight home afterwards I went for a wander.  Decided to pop in to The Hermitage Community Garden.  The Hermitage was built in 1790 by Matthew Taylor. The Taylors were a wealthy family who owned wherries and keels on the Tyne. In 1765 they had opened a brewery which developed into the most important brewing establishment in County Durham. The Hermitage Garden was lavishly laid out during the early 19th century. It had various features of significant interest including a lake with its boathouse and bridge of “willow pattern design”, a pagoda and tennis court adjacent to the lake, and a two storey brick watchtower. Over the years the garden fell into a terrible state but  in 2002 a local resident arranged a public meeting and formed a committee to gain planning permission and generate funding in order to restore the garden to its former glory.

Between 2004 and 2006 the garden was extensively restored, and original features including a lake, boathouse, bridge and a pagoda were retained. The lake was made into a wildlife pond and bog garden. A new wooden watchtower was built (see it in my Extras) and fitted with a toilet for disabled people. The summerhouse (pagoda) contains a pictorial gallery of the history of the village and is a showcase for photographs of the work done in restoring the garden. A pergola has been added, paths have been laid, and the garden extensively planted with trees, flowers and shrubs. An accessible vegetable garden with raised beds gives hands on experience to children from local schools.  After years of work the garden was formally opened on 8th September 2006.  In 2012 the Orangery was completed and now serves drinks and snacks. My blip shot shows the pond and quiet seating area.  There are some large goldfish in the pond.

I am tagging this as a Wild Wednesday entry.  Thanks to Cailleach for hosting this challenge.

The rest of the day has been spent quietly at home. Well I was quiet but the street wasn't. One of my neighbours is getting new block paving laid and the workmen were cutting bricks all day.  Very dusty and noisy.  When I looked out of the window this evening I could see that they have finished the job so at least it will be quiet from now on. Becky phoned around 5.30pm and we chatted while she walked home from work.  Lovely to hear her voice.

The weather today has been OK - sunny but not very warm.

Steps today - 9,215