Rousham (Oxfordshire).

[Giles]

Generally regarded as the finest example of an English Landscape Garden.
Laid out by William Kent in 1738, and not subject to any later 'improvements'.
Still in the private ownership of the original family.

[Giles]

some more..

[Giles]

..last five..

[Maggi Young]

1738 eh?   Just before supper! 
A charming place, Giles. The elaborate metal gate to the walled garden makes super subject.

[Ragged Robin]

Wonderful views of and English landscaped garden, Giles, and very unique that it's unspoilt and in the same family after generations!  I love the sweep of the lawns, the bridge with the lake in front and the statues and stone buildings that give such atmosphere to the place. ( pic 37 what was it originally?)

[Paddy Tobin]

Giles,

Obviously a wonderful garden, great open spaces and vistas coupled with excellent walled gardens. What was the selection of trees/shrubs like?

Good post, Paddy

[Giles]

Robin: ..it's a pigeon house.
Paddy: ... not really a garden for seeing fancy plants. It's the lay-out that makes it nice. I go about once a month (it's just dwon the road from me) and I'm often the only person there.
Maggi..... have to be quick, as nanny puts me to bed after 'The Magic Roundabout' 

[David Nicholson]

Very nice indeed Giles, the dahlias looked great.

[Lvandelft]

Thanks for showing Giles. One more garden on our 'to visit' list. Beautiful historical lay out and surely worth a visit !
Not heard of it before and just missed it on ca. 10 miles 2 weeks ago

[Brian Ellis]

Thank you so much Giles, this has been on on our absolutely must visit list for some time (must try harder), and I had seen photos of some of the landscape but not the 'gardens'.  It looks to be a stunning example of it's type and we will try harder.  Best time of year to visit?

[Giles]

Brian,
Anytime is fine.
I prefer it when the leaves are on the trees, as it it a bit bleak otherwise.
It's more the place for a moody walk than a trip of horticultural delights.

[cohan]

fascinating! especially coming from here, where there simply are no human altered landscapes (much less buildings) that old... (ok, i checked-- on a nearby archaeological site-a fur trading post dating to 1799, but i dont think much remains from those days!)..

really amazing that its stayed in the same family, great continuity..

[Brian Ellis]

Brian,
Anytime is fine.
I prefer it when the leaves are on the trees, as it it a bit bleak otherwise.
It's more the place for a moody walk than a trip of horticultural delights.

Yes that fits in with the idea of the Arcadian Dream!  Lots of contemplation