I think it is sometimes hard to live up to a reputation, but Sissinghurst had no trouble! I have seen many photographs of this garden, but nothing is quite like seeing it for yourself. It surpassed all my expectations and I was so impressed with the overall design, structure, planting combinations, and terrific plant material. We almost had a disaster when we showed up and the garden was closed, but our friend Bertie made a quick call and after meeting the head gardener, a very warm and gracious Alexis Datta, we were ushered in to tour the garden with the whole place to ourselves. Of course that contributes to the magic of a place! Deb was enamored with the spirit of Vita Sackville-West and the great old connection between literature and gardening. The tower happened to be open so this is where we started.
The walled in gardens, castle tower, and the surrounding Weald, made this the most enchanting garden I have ever been to.
Looking into the white garden.
Aster pilosus var. demotus standing out against that glorious black green yew hedge. The weather and low autumnal light helped show off this feature!
A lovely Argyranthemum against a weathered copper pot.
The yew pillars (you can see these in the first photo from the tower) with Salvia confertiflora.
Looking through the yew pillars to the cottage door.
The Cottage Garden
All those layers backlit by the sunshine!
Another post to follow on some of the individual show stoppers....
Helen,
ReplyDeleteIs the last photo also in the Cottage Garden? Trying to match it up to the map in my mind from what I have read.
Those first views from the tower are breath taking. Thanks for sharing them!
Julie
Hi Julie,
ReplyDeleteThank you for all your lovely comments, I appreciate it! This view is looking down the rose garden in the direction of the Cottage Garden. Hopefully that helps.
The photos were enhanced by absolutely perfect weather!
Best,
Helen