With autumn in full swing now we are certainly finding plenty to do in the gardens! Apart from the seemingly never ending task of leaf blowing and raking we have been chopping back all the Mexican daisies that grow in the walls. This reveals the beautiful stone work underneath and shows off the intricate structure of the Formal Garden.
We also have some new additions to the garden for the winter - three sheep can be found on the old tennis court by the orchard! Nicknamed Tallulah, Edna and Penelope by the gardeners, these sheep are here to graze the long grass that has grown up over the summer.
The winter bedding plants on the Victorian Terrace that were planted at the end of October are settling in and starting to flower. Also look out for the stunning Euonymus alatus with its dark pink foliage in the Shrubbery. This is a great small shrub for autumn colour.
Don't forget that it is the Christmas Market this weekend! A beautiful 15 foot Nordman Fir Christmas tree has been put up in the courtyard. Look out for the Hestercombe stand in the marquee where you can buy products such as wooden chopping boards made by the gardeners from Hestercombe's own oak and sweet chestnut.
