Mid-Week Garden Openings In Hertfordshire

This week we have 2 wonderful openings for the discerning garden visitor – both full of summer colour and foliage.

New for the NGS, 217 The Ridgeway in St Albans, is open on Wednesday 20th June, 2pm–6pm. This 2/3 acre suburban garden is a Pandora's box of design ideas and planting styles. From the rose bedecked arch and the sunken central patio to the delightful gravel garden circling the summerhouse, the enthusiasm and passion of the owners shine through.

Vibrant flower beds come alive with colour, whilst a range of perennials and specimen trees add a variety of form and texture to the different areas of this garden. Richly toned Japanese maples contrast with deep green shrubs and numerous water features nestle in hidden corners. Sculptural elements, in both traditional and modern styles, are dotted around this fascinating garden just waiting to be discovered.

Also open on the afternoon of 20th June is Croft Cottage in Benington, a wonderful example of cottage garden planting. Creatively divided into several areas, this garden surrounds a pretty 16th century whitewashed cottage and shows off a collection of euphorbias and hostas to their very best potential. With borders filled with shrubs and perennials displaying a diversity of foliage colour, this garden offers seating beneath the shade of an arbour covered in roses and clematis. Gravel paths lead you to a garden of Japanese acers next to a small pool where you can sit and take in the pretty sight of the nearby 13th century church.