Minterne Magna

  • SPRING walk: Ever driven past and wondered what Minterne Gardens are like?

On Friday, April 17 you have an opportunity to find out more – under expert guidance – by participating in a spring walk!

This walk will also mark the fond goodbyes which are being said to Head Gardener of some 50 years, Robin Pearson, and the arrival of a new Head Gardener, Iain Davies.

He brings with him a broad range of expertise, from being the youngest Head Gardener appointed by the National Trust to renovating the largest rock garden in Europe.

The ethos of the gardens will remain unchanged – it always has been and still is a quiet and secluded oasis of rhododendrons, azaleas and magnolias, shown in a similar environment as they were found in China by the 19th and 20th century plant hunters.

The vast majority of species in Minterne Gardens were propagated from seed brought back by these explorers.

The spring walk will be free of charge and also include a glass of wine and sandwiches.

Participants are asked to gather at 5:30pm for a 6pm start.

Due to the nature of the walk numbers will have to be restricted therefore booking is essential.

Please contact Mrs Maureen Panchen on 01300 341370 or e-mail enquiries@minterne.co.uk.

In case of inclement weather, the alternative date for the walk will be Monday, April 20 and everyone will of course be informed.

Minterne House is also looking at the possibility of creating a group “Friends of Minterne Gardens”.

Any suggestions regarding this will be gratefully received – please use the above contact details.

  • OPEN Day: The forthcoming Open Day at Minterne Gardens must also be mentioned here.

More details will follow but please note Sunday, May 10 in your diaries.

The day will take place between 11am and 5pm and is held in support of St. Andrew’s Church.

Sydling St. Nicholas

  • OPEN Gardens: The second Bank Holiday week-end in May will host an Open Gardens event in the village.

This event is not part of the Open Gardens Scheme but organised independently in aid of the village hall.

The gardens will be open on Sunday, May 24 and Monday, May 25 from 2pm – 6pm each day and this is also accompanied by a “Made in Sydling” exhibition which showcases local craftsmen and –women of any kind.

The entry fee for adults is £ 4, children go free but the organisers regret that no dogs apart from guide dogs are allowed.

Apart from Sydling’s beautiful gardens visitors will also be able to visit various stalls and plenty of refreshment will be on offer!

  • JEWELLERY Open Day: Resident Penny Cordy is holding this annual event on Saturday, April 18 this year.

Now is the time to think about updating your summer clothes and perhaps also your jewellery!

Penny makes beautiful necklaces, chokers, bracelets and many more items, individual designs can be made to order.

Come and see her at Hazel Cottage, 1 Waterside Walk anytime between 11am and 6pm – there is absolutely no obligation to buy.

Other times can be organised by prior arrangement – phone Penny Cordy on 01300 341618.