Botanica Tour Ends

On our last day at Bath we visited two gardens. We had a beautiful walk around the pictureque landscape of Stourhead gardens with it follies and classical temples and bridges reflected in the still water of the lake. This had similarities to the Wilderness areas of Hestercombe gardens and the grand landscapes of Blenheim Palace. It also had remarkable rock grottos with sculptures spot lit by daylight from above. This is the most visited garden in England and it vistas are clearly recognizable. Afterwards we travelled to Montisfont Abbey which was also set on a grand estate. The trees were magnificent many of remarkable size. It houses the National Collection of roses but I felt it was past its best and needed much maintenance and deadheading. The lavender hedges however, were very impressive. A bonus of this visit was an exhibition of Beatrix Potter's drawing and quite an impressive collection of paintings. There was along queue for the exhibition but it was worth seeing. I was a little disappointed that the drawings were not placed chronologically as you worked from resolved later works to her earliest attempts. The detail and careful observations, however, made for a special show. We returned to Bath passing Wilton House which we would visit later for The Bournemouth Symphony's "Classic Spectacular"and viewing Salisbury Cathedral from afar and Stone Henge and its trail of tourists from the bus. Tea was at the hotel and tonight wine was provided. Sara, Phil and Julie were thanked and we were so fortunate with them all. I was given the task of making a small speech for Julie. She is doing work experience at Hidcote and Sissinghurst which will be an amazing opportunity. I am sure we will see her again at Heronswood. The next day we rose early to depart for London and Hampton Court Palace. This extremely hot day was noteable more for the heat and the crowds rather than the beauty of the exhibits. I think that Melbourne's flower and garden shows are on a more achievable scale and I now have no desire to see Chelsea or Hampton Court shows in the future. This was the end of our Botanica Tour. I have blogged on this day in London so now at last have completed the saga of the gardens grand tour, a very happy time for both of us.
This tour was beyond expectation, Our guide and leader, Sara was most impressive and we were very fortunate to benefit from her extensive knowledge and share her love of gardens. It was fortunate to see so many superb gardens and enjoy the friendship of the other participants. Thankyou Margaret, Jim, Jan and Robert for being such excellent travelling companions.
Sorry the blog of the garden tour took so long to complete. Unfortunately details have been lost with time. However, now that I have easy access to a computer, I should be able to finish our happenings in Jersey at the end of each day.
Love to all
Jo and Rog