The other week we spent a glorious sunny weekend in the Cotswolds – English summer at its best. On the way back home to London we made a stop at Cerney House Gardens, a lovely hidden gem of a place. I have visited once before in springtime and it was amazing then with gorgeous tulips and other spring bulbs, so I was really excited to return in high summer and experience the garden at a different time of year. The main event here is the beautiful walled garden, situated on a slope surrounded by tall trees that filter the sunlight and gives it a real ‘secret garden’ feel. I love the vibe in this place, it is somehow very real and relatable, not as perfectly manicured as some of the major showstopper gardens but all the more lovely for it. Here I am standing on the steps at the entrance to the walled garden.
How about that for an entrance! I’m sure I’m not the only one dreaming of having a rose cascading over an arch in such a relaxed way.
Lots of roses to see here, how pretty is this baby pink one mingling with the lilac clematis – gorgeous!
The view towards the entrance, a strip off lawn flanked by deep borders on either side. Dreamy evening strolls to be had here.
At the top of the garden is this little summer house with a medicinal herb garden in front.
Bright orange day lilies showing off in the dappled afternoon sunlight.
Loved this combo of hot pink roses and crocosmia, so bold and vibrant!
Here you get a feel for the general vibe – relaxed, secluded and very tranquil. Such a beautiful spot.
There is a lovely Victorian glasshouse with cold frames attached.
Absolutely love these brick cold frames with the bench in front, a mass of poppy seed heads spilling out.
View from the top of the garden over the glasshouse. The Japanese anemones were out already and truly stunning! Mine are only just budding here in London but they are in a much shadier position so I’m guessing that’s why.
There is a lovely knot garden at Cerney House, I remember this looking spectacular in May time with tons of tulips peeking out from those box hedges. The box has been badly hit by blight but is currently being treated and I hope that it will recover soon. The structure of it still looks gorgeous and I enjoyed this part of the garden even though it was looking slightly sorry for itself.
And finally, the rose walk that leads down to the house. Such a lovely garden to visit, all very low key with an honesty box for the entry fee and self service tea room. Both times I have visited it has been really quiet with just a few other visitors which means you can really enjoy the place at your own pace. Highly recommend a visit – hope to return in spring next year!
