BODNANT GARDENS, NORTH WALES. 24TH OCTOBER 2008

[Brian Ellis]

If I may add a few photos Cliff, we went there last week the day before the Shrewsbury Flower Show.  I wondered what to expect as it is hardly rhododendron time!  We were not disappointed, and I think most of the people on the coach really enjoyed the visit.  By the new entrance is a hot border coming into it's own with a lovely Itea italicifolia on the wall behind and Eucomis 'Sparkling Burgundy' adding a touch of class
The house is very substantial and has a wonderful conservatory attached (not open ).  There is a sunken oval pool in the front lawn and I was pleased to see a reminder of home: Fuschia magallenica 'Lady Bacon' - I think I ought to get one and plant it with my Galanthus 'Priscilla Bacon', nearby was an Isoplexis canariensis which seemed quite out of place somehow!

[Brian Ellis]

The formal gardens near the house comprise lawns and several terraces, the topmost being the Upper Rose Terrace, then the Croquet Terrace next the Lily Terrace and finally the Canal Terrace and Pin Mill. There were several beds of perennials and a substantial pergola, nearby a gardener was clipping the hedge.  The gardens then fall away down to an Old Mill by the River Hiraethlyn, a walk along its banks takes you through The Dell where several magnificent trees are planted with hydrangeas, hostas, ligularia and primroses to the Waterfall.  This is situated below The Poem which is a Mausoleum, quite why it is called that I did not discover.

[Paddy Tobin]

Our visits to Bodnant have always been earlier in the year so it is good to see it at another season. Nice shots, Brian.

Paddy

[Maggi Young]

 This is situated below The Poem which is a Mausoleum, quite why it is called that I did not discover.

This is seemingly something of a mystery, but it is believed to have come from Place Of Eternal Memory.... which is rather nice.

[Brian Ellis]

My goodness Maggi you are, as David has just said, "A clever old bu&&er" (in the nicest possible way) is there no end to your knowledge? 

[Maggi Young]

I emailed the folks at Bodnant and asked them, Brian    I thought it was a most intriguing name and wanted to know more.  I'm nothing if not curious!

[Brian Ellis]

Thanks Maggi, I'm pleased you are nosier than me