Barlborough Gardens

My latest visit to a National Gardens Scheme (NGS) opening is to one that hasn't opened this year yet! Earlier this week I was granted a seek preview of the six gardens that will be opening this Saturday and Sunday at Barlborough.

First on my list was a trip to The Hollies. Hidden at the end of the village it has a driveway which demands to be walked along. The border is filled with a medlar tree, bushes dripping with gooseberries, redcurrants and raspberries and apples growing along the fence.

Further up the garden divides into separate areas with lawn at the front and a patio area at the back. Throughout the garden are pots and containers bursting with colour. Black and yellow petunias, vegetables and herbs plus Japanese Anemones.

Onto Clarendon and a lawn to be admired! You would be hard pressed to find grass looking so lush, thick and green.

At the back there are paths both hidden and seen leading you onto the next display.

If you ever need any advice on growing sweetpeas then Greystones Barn is the place to go to. Each one is individually planted to show off the variety and colour.

In contrast to the sweetpeas the end bed is filled with lush hostas and other greenery.

At Goose Cottage the water fountain bubbles away overlooked by hostas.

There's more water to be found at the back with deep pool filled with koi carp. Standing out against the stone walls are the containers with bright red geraniums.

Just across from Goose Cottage is Woodside House. The name is given due to the woodland set behind the edge of the garden.

Along with a pond filled with natural spring water there's bright, cheerful flowers dotted around the garden with red alstroemerias and lilac poppies.

My last visit of the afternoon was to Lindway. Catch this garden while you can as it could be the last year it is opening. After seeing (and tasting!) the peas I've been inspired to try and grow some myself next year.

One last look at the standard rose and it was time to go for day but I'll be back at the weekend.

Barlborough Gardens, Derbyshire will be open on Saturday 16^th July and Sunday 17^th July 2016 1-6pm. Admission £6 for entry to all six houses, children free.