Kelmarsh Hall Gardens

A short trip up the A508 to the village of Kelmarsh. It's a nice sunny Sunday afternoon, to spend a few hours wandering the gardens of Kelmarsh Hall. 

The award winning historic gardens are known for their relaxed charm, overflowing borders and a unique walled garden. The Palladian Kelmarsh Hall was built in for William Hanbury, Esq (1704-1768), a famous antiquarian. It is Grade I listed and open to the public. The Hall is no longer lived in, and now in the care of an independent charitable trust.  

Rear view of Kelmarsh Hall

Today we are just focusing on the Gardens. After walking through the courtyard we are met with a stunning view across the lawns and lake. In the far distance fields of golden wheat complete the vista. 

We start by circuiting the lake via the woods on our right. The Estate contains numerous areas of high conservation value. All of the estate woodlands along with the park and wilderness lake are designated local wildlife sites and support many local Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Species.

 

There are some amazing Dragonflies and Damselflies darting over the water. Far too quick for me to get a photo unfortunately. Brown Hawkers,Common Hawkers and an Emperor Dragonfly.    

The lake itself plays an important role in providing renewable energy to Kelmarsh Hall.A water source heat pump was installed in the lake in 2012 transferring low grade heat to the Hall. Thereby the reliance on fossil fuels is reduced. 

The Hall is surrounded by its working estate, grazing parklands and Grade II listed gardens. Highlights are the distinctive Walled Garden, Sunken Garden, topiary and rose gardens, woodlands, lake and herbaceous borders – all designed principally by Nancy Lancaster, with Norah Lindsay and landscape architect Geoffrey Jellicoe.

 

We have joined the 'Fairy Trail' through the woodlands. All sorts of fairies live amongst the trees. It's all very pleasant  and proves that Fairies do exist, and not just at the bottom of the garden. Some much appreciated shade is enjoyed too.

Across the fields is the Church of St Denys, Kelmarsh.  

We continue our way through the many paths that wind through the gardens. The walled garden is very impressive, brimming with brightly coloured blooms.   

It's been a lovely afternoon trip out which is finished off with a trip to the tearooms.