"West Green House Gardens has many features which are original and inspirational. A grand water staircase, created by Marylyn Abbott, provides the focal point to the Nymphaeum fountain designed by Quinlan Terry. By the house is a charming small topiary garden where water lilies flourish in small water tanks sunk in the ground. Itruns up to a handsome aviary inhabited by unusual breeds of bantams and chickens. Beyond, are a dramatic new Persian water garden in a woodland glade, a newly restored lake, more follies and fancies, new walks and massive plantings of snowdrops, daffodils and fritillaries.

Lavishness is a hallmark of the Abbott style – 10,000 tulip bulbs are planted every year – but Marylyn also emphasises the importance of drama, colour, innovation and humour in the garden. The lessons for the visitor are endless: you cannot fail to be inspired, cheered, amused and delighted by this extraordinary garden."

Extracts from Charles Quest-Ritson
(for The Royal Horticultural Society Garden Finder 2007)

Background

Marylyn Abbott purchased the 99 year lease of West Green House from the National Trust in 1993. Since then it has been run as a private garden as the National Trust relinquished all financial and day to day involvement with the estate.

More on Marylyn Abbott

Visiting

The gardens will re-open on Saturday 8 April until 30 September 2012 on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays between 11am - 4.30pm, except on Music and Opera days where times will vary.

Directions

 

Garden tours
 
Select a garden for additional information and slideshow tour

The Green Theatre and Orangery The Dragon Garden The Alice Garden
The Green Theatre
and Orangery		 The Dragon Garden The Alice Garden
The Nymphaeum The Chicken Garden The Walled Garden
The Nymphaeum The Chicken Garden The Walled Garden
The Lake field The Five Bridges Paradise Garden
The Lake Field The Five Bridges The Paradise Garden
The Greenhouse The garden at night The Temple Garden
The Greenhouse The Garden at Night The Temple Garden