Iford revisited.

Back in April we came to Iford Manor just for a coffee on the recommendation of one of Grace’s neighbours. We were so impressed we made up our minds to revisit and see the gardens on our August visit. The garden is private and is best pre booked to ensure entry.
The cafe back in April had the most stunning display of Tulips I think I’ve ever seen and the Manor itself was adorned with a magnificent wisteria. Today we had our coffee surrounded by more subtle summer planting - 1st in extra collage  - but it was still a delight.

The garden climbs up behind the Manor on terraces and was created by a Harold Peto in the early 20th century. The land either side of the River Frome, which borders Wiltshire and Somerset at this point, is recorded in the Domesday book as Eford. Owned by the brother of William the Conqueror and later housing a cloth mill leased by monks before going into private ownership after the dissolution of the monasteries. So, lots of history.

Peto believed a garden of beauty to be a combination of architecture and plants. He loved old Italian Gardens and much of the statuary and stone work in the garden now originated from Italy, some of it very old.

Perhaps not as colourful as in the Spring but Chris was very impressed by the Fuchias seen here and in the extra in pots. He bought one from the plant stall at the end. I love the Erigeron daisies on the steps and the chocolate coloured Cosmos and dark pelargoniums in some of the planters.

Back to the cafe for lunch, you can book the restaurant too, it looked pretty full. Chris just wanted tea, think maybe he has a touch of my bug.

Good to be back to warm and sunny today. We enjoyed the visit and may return again in Spring. Only half a hour’s drive from Bath but not so keen on the single track road access, at least in Scotland they have passing places!

When back home I’ll make a Flickr album of both gardens visited this week