February 2007 Easton Walled Garden
Easton was the site of a major Victorian house and garden. After the last war the house was largely demolished and the garden virtually disappeared. Recently a major programme has begun to recreate something of the former glories. The results are already spectacular and we were able to see the wonderful snowdrop drifts, which we admired as we walked around the grounds at our own pace.
April 2007 Rushton Hall
Rushton Hall has been owned by several families of whom the most famous were the Treshams in the Elizabethan period. The Hall has recently begun a new lease of life as a hotel. However, the majority of the former Park and Gardens are in the care of local farmer and NGT member David Pain
May 2007 - Coton Lodge
Coton Lodge has intimate enclosed areas with an informal woodland stream and pond. We had a memorable evening enjoying the beautiful gardens and fine views over surrounding countryside. The massed tulips and wisteria were spectacular.
May 2007 - Arthingworth Manor
We were fortunate in being able to visit this long established garden, with its walled surround, colour themed beds and sunken garden.
June 2007 - Greywalls, Farndish
The Alpine House and raised alpine beds appealed to the alpine enthusiasts in the Trust. While the natural ponds and water features, with views over the open countryside, made this a splendid summer evening visit.
June 2007 - Cramden Nursery
Cramden Nursery is a family run business specialising in pelargoniums and geraniums. We were shown around the extensive glass houses, which held over 80 different varieties. A short lecture followed when we heard about the propagation techniques and had an opportunity to buy from their wide range.
July 2007 - Little Houghton House
These gardens are not normally open to the public, so we were fortunate to hold our summer party here. These interesting and attractive gardens are home to Christopher Davidge, a well known Northamptonshire historian.
August 2007 - Kirby Hall
Kirby Hall is now a ruin but these ruins are the very substantial remains of a fine Elizabethan house which was first built by the Stafford family and then extended by the Hattons. We saw the work that English Heritage have been doing in redesigning the historic gardens.
September 2007 - The Menagerie
Once part of Horton Hall, the menagerie is all that remains of the private zoo that was in the gardens of the original hall. The new garden created in the 1980's features a lime avenue leading to a mount and obelisk and two thatched arbours.
