In August, an excavation of the walled garden was carried out by a small team of volunteers led by archaeologist, Jeremy Milln. The team unearthed a pond which could clearly be seen on the 1885 Ordinance Survey map. Inside the ponds were some rather peculiar finds; an 1875 halfpenny, an intact teapot and a prehistoric flint flake. Someday, with further funding, it is hoped the pond can be restored to its former glory.
The first harvest
The first harvest in 50 years took place the same year. Beans, beetroot, peas, onions, leeks and squashes thrived and inside the borders and flowers started to flourish.
The following years saw the walled garden grow from strength to strength, with plants maturing and the harvest reaping more and more produce.
Eventually, the garden was so productive it was supplying all four of the Herefordshire National Trust locations with fresh produce to use in their tea-rooms as well as being sold on-site to the general public.