I’m longing to get out of the house at the week end and I’ve just remembered that there’s an interesting house and garden to visit that’s open all year round not very far away in Enfield, (probably just a 30 minute drive or so). Myddleton House Gardens bills itself as ‘An enchanting place to visit at any time of year’. It was the home of Edward Augustus Bowles, one of Britain’s most famous self-taught gardeners, artists and expert botanists. He lived in Myddelton House from 1865 to 1954 and dedicated much of his life to transforming the gardens with his love of unusual and exotic plants. Boasting an impressive range of flora and fauna there’s something to stimulate the senses each season, from colourful spring crocuses to dazzling summer irises.
There are many unusual plants to explore like those of the Lunatic Asylum, newly restored Kitchen Garden, colourful Alpine Meadow and the extensive snowdrop collection which brings the gardens to life during February. The gardens are also home to a beautiful carp lake, a Victorian conservatory and a number of historical artefacts collected and treasured by E A Bowles, including pieces from the original St Paul’s Cathedral and the Enfield Market Cross. Come back later in the year to admire the 111 year old Wisteria which turns a brilliant blue when it flowers during May. The beautiful, newly created, Victorian Glasshouse Range is also open to the public. Unique details have been kept in the designs, such as four climatic zones, a vine house and a sunken glasshouse that would have been used to grow fruit such as melons and cucumbers. I might see you there.
Myddelton House Gardens, Bulls Cross, Enfield EN2 9HG. Tel: 08456 770 600
Open every day 10 am to 17 pm
