Thursday, 17 June 2021 at 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
A self drive visit to Great Chalfield Manor gardens and Iford Manor have been arranged. Please use the booking form below to book your tickets.
Great Chalfield Manor and Gardens – SN12 8NH
Great Chalfield, a medieval, moated manor house (grade 1 listed), was fully restored in 1905 to its former glory and has featured in the BBC dramas “Wolf Hall”, “Poldark” and “Tess of the D’Urbervilles”. The manor house and gardens were given to the NT in 1943 and are now looked after by the Floyd family, descendants of the donor.
The grade 2 listed gardens were designed by Alfred Parsons in 1905 -1912 who was influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement. The 7acres surrounding the property, are constantly evolving with their variety of plants, colours and styles. There are many features to discover – plant filled borders, a raised walk way, small fountains, an avenue with a two storey Edwardian gazebo overlooking the moat, a paved court yard with a fine yellow Banksia rose and the most unusual topiary pavilions in the form of houses without windows. This lovely garden, complete with an orchard filled with wild flowers and a spring-fed moat and fish pond, will delight you. Near the front of the house is a small 14th century church, also worth a visit.
There will be a chance to join a guided tour of the house. Refreshments are available.
Iford Manor – BA15 2BA
A romantic Grade 1 listed Italianate garden, famous for its tranquil beauty was designed by Harold Peto the Edwardian architect who lived there in 1899 – 1933. It is tucked away at the bottom of a steep sided valley and is characterised by a series of steps, terraces, sculptures and magnificent rural views. This stunning garden is unique and full of surprises and includes a Japanese garden, cloisters, summer house, roses and borrowed views of the landscape as well as many amazing pillars and columns. It has had a complete historic replant which was finished in 2018. This magnificent garden is now looked after by the new head gardener Troy Scott-Smith who recently gave us a Zoom lecture on roses. Lunch will be provided here.
Cost of trip is £20 for NT members, £28 for non-members and includes lunch.
Apply for tickets by use of the application form
