Nestled in Ham’s atmospheric 17th century garden, on the banks of the Thames, the planting is the creation of head gardener Rosie Fyles. Inspired by the garden’s history, Rosie has transformed the mansion’s vast manicured lawns – each the size of centre court at Wimbledon – and filled them with crocus, tulips, muscari and wildflowers to create a show of colour and scent throughout the warmer months.
Rosie Fyles said: ‘From the grand entrance to the extravagant interiors, everything about Ham House was designed to impress. The gardens were no exception. To the 17th century eye, kept lawns were a truly awe-inspiring sight, possible only through the dedication of an entire team of gardeners. We set out to create a garden area that inspires that same ‘wow’ from today’s garden lovers.'
Ham House has had a focus on natural gardening for over a decade and Rosie’s team also manages nearby Ham House and Petersham Meadows. All the new plants have been chosen with wildlife in mind as well as for their display.
‘We hope the new garden will give people a tranquil place to enjoy nature and spend time together. The ideas we’ve used could easily work in any garden so we hope that visitors can get inspired by what they see too.’
Ham House and Garden is open 7 days a week, with the garden open from 10am-5pm. Adult entry for the house and garden is £12.50 (National Trust Members go free). Free thirty minute Garden History tours are also available at 11.30am and 1:30pm on weekdays and 11.30, 1.30 and 2.30 at weekends. (Booking not necessary, admission applies).