This beautiful 19-acre garden was originally part of the pleasure grounds of Halden House, owned by
the Palk family. Now, only a fraction of the old garden can be seen in the form of wonderful old
trees and the structure of the garden.

Our visit was perfectly timed to admire the camellias and the many varieties of magnolias from the
large pink flowers fluttering in the wind like hankies high in the sky, to the primrose yellow buds of
'butterflies' just opening.
Ted took us round the oldest part of the garden, answering our questions and pointing out various
landmarks, notably the ancient oak and cedars which are more than 200 years old.
The lake and the stream which descends through the garden in mossy cascades gives the garden a
tranquillity and Bmelessness.
The new part of the garden contains a large lilac circle, new azalea beds, specimen trees and a
wisteria pergola. It would definitely be worth returning when these are in bloom for the sight and
perfume. At the end of the visit we sat in the sun drinking tea and savouring delicious cakes baked
by Judith using fruits from the vegetable plot and then we purchased plants and shrubs grown by
Ted. An excellent team!

This garden is open under the National Garden Scheme on many occasions throughout the
summer. Do go along if you haven't visited it yet. It's just a stone's throw from where we live