What better time to chat about Norfolk, than on Norfolk Day of course! I was born in Norfolk and having lived overseas, travelled around the world and spent time in London…I am always drawn back to the good ole county of Norfolk. Its like a magnet. The varying coastline, stunning countryside and the Norfolk Broads with an abundance of wildlife, some which are only found in our very special county. Norwich City is one of my favourite places in the world, a hub of culture and creativity - a place of innovative forward thinking organisations and understatedly cool people.
Now it would be rather remiss of me not to mention the gardens, right!? It is always a huge privilege to meet, support and promote beautiful gardens all over the world but those in Norfolk are so close to my heart, I can visit them time and time again to get that gorgeous feeling our gardens provide us with. So I’ve put together a list of Norfolk gardens to visit and even links to videos I have filmed for some of them so you can get a really good feel for what they are like.
You just cant beat Norfolk, you cant beat a walk around a garden…so here is my tour for you around my top 5 Norfolk gardens:
1. Stody Lodge Garden
If you are into crazy colour clashing flowers then this is the place to visit. Wowzers is all I can say. The fragrance is fabulous but and if you are high on colour from the borders and woodland walk…take a wander over to the Azalea Water Gardens where you will head to new heights on the colour chart. Masses of colour in a bowl of loveliness, this is one Norfolk garden to visit year after year. Browse my photos HERE.
2. East Ruston Old Vicarage Gardens
Well, those of you who have been will know why this is a top pick. So many wonderfully different areas that still seamlessly mesh together. From the Dutch Garden full of Tulips, to the Exotic garden and walled garden - oh and just so much more! Plus the cake in the cafe is just delicious. Watch my a video of my visit HERE.
3. Hoveton Hall
Super Spring garden to visit, with open days and even theatre in the garden as well. From a variety of Magnolias to a crazy number of Daffodils through woodlands. Rhododendrons and Azaleas grace the area in May and there is even a Daffodil named after Harry’s Great Grandfather ‘Buxton’. Watch a video of my visit HERE
4. Pensthorpe Millennium Garden
Not only a fascinating nature reserve but also home to the Piet Oudolf designed garden with swathes of colour really coming into its own late Summer into early Autumn. Grasses grace the area with colourful perennials and pathways winding through the plants so you feel very much part of the landscape. Check out the website HERE
5. Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden
Take a relaxed walk through woodland pathways, under a shady canopy of wonderful trees, from a King and Queen Oak, by waterways to a stunning vista of the Norfolk Broads. On your way through, marvel at the large collection of Primula’s, the Hydrangea walk and the wonderful Norfolk wildlife. Read all about the Head Gardener, Ian Guest HERE
Check out all of the social media and press action today celebrating our fabulous County of Norfolk! #NorfolkDay
