Partner feature


I decided to go a litle off the main track and wandered into a wide vista of a manicured lawn, which was surrounded by a selection of enchanting trees, including ‘the Weeping Spruce’ and ‘Japanese Maple’. From here, I could glimpse the neo-Tudor Batsford House, an extraordinary Victorian design built in the 1890’s.


Back onto the main path I turned a slight bend, which brought into view the formidable neo-Norman gothic church of St Mary’s, siting on the edge of Batsford village. I’d come for the trees, but was also geting a fascinating architectural tour.


Strolling back, I spoted the majestic ‘Purple Beech’ with its huge clawed roots digging into the soil. Throughout, there were meandering paths leading to hidden delights, including a field of wild flowers with driſts of ‘Camassias’ nestling close to a stunning Italian marble sculpture ‘Daphne’.


The estate has 60 acres of grounds Around 3,000 plants grow in the garden


The arboretum has 10 champion trees © All images Catherine Hewer


WESTONBIRT AUTUMN 2017 35


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