Welsh Country - Issue88 - May - Jun 19

“
Come we to the summer, to the summer we will come,
For the woods are full of bluebells, and the hedges full of bloom,
And the crow is on the oak a-building of her nest,
And love is burning diamonds in my true lover’s breast;
”
John Clare (1793-1864)
Bryngwyn
Among other gardens open
under the NGS is Bwlchau
Duon, set in the Cambrian
Mountains at 1100ft. This
is a plantaholics haven
where borders are full of
unusual plants mixed with
old favourites. There are
vegetable gardens, a 100ft
herbaceous border and
winding paths which lead
to natural bog areas with
magnificent views of the
Cothi valley.
Rockfield Park, picture by Katie Palmer
Bryngwyn near
Aberystwyth appeals to
lovers of the natural world
with traditional wildflower
rich hay meadows with
mown paths. As a result
of conservation grazing,
hedgerow renovation,
tree planting and a pond,
habitat has been restored for
wildlife. There is also a small
orchard with Welsh heritage
apples and pears.
Moving eastward,
Rockfield Park dates
from the 17th century,
and is situated in the heart
of the Monmouthshire
countryside on the banks
of the River Monnow. The
extensive grounds comprise
formal gardens, a kitchen
garden, meadows and
woodland. A steep water
feature, featuring ancient
acers, leads to riverside
lawns and walks where you
can picnic.
Aptly named Tranquillity
Haven near Knighton
embodies the essence of
a Japanese Stroll Garden
but with borrowed views of
Offa’s Dyke. Winding paths
pass small pools and lead
to Japanese bridges over a
natural stream with dippers
and kingfishers. Enjoy peace
and tranquillity from one of
the seats or the Japanese Tea
House. Oriental planting
with cornus, acers, azaleas,
unusual bamboos and
wonderful cloud pruning.
54
www.welshcountry.co.uk
Tranquillity Haven