The Gardens at Felbrigg

Get up close to the double borders and herb beds and really breathe in the scent of lavender, sage and mint. You can find a good many modern surprises within this traditionally laid out garden, including one of the few octagonal working dovecotes in the country, dating back to the early 1750s. 

We have some lovely old figs trained against the south facing wall of the herb border in the walled garden, thought to have been relocated to its present position around 1750. A quote in the “Eastern Arboretum,” from James Grigor, published in 1847, mentions that the figs were about 100 years old at the time, making the figs the only original remaining plants from the garden of that period.

Unusual plants

Planted around 1860 is our extra special Umbellularia Californica, also known as the “Headache Tree” or “Balm of Heaven,” a very rare species in the UK.

One of our gardeners enjoys the scent released by mowing through the leaves. However, following a debate amongst our gardeners, as to whether the "headache" side-effect was a myth, another gardener broke off a handful of leaves, crushed them and inhaled deeply – it ruined his day! Delightful or dreadful, come and make your own decision.

Although not as well-known as the Walled Garden, the West Garden, which surrounds the house at Felbrigg is a joy to the senses, particularly in spring. Edged with a ha-ha, you can follow the gravel paths through the garden, amongst the trees and shrubs.