Waterperry Gardens, Oxfordshire, England

Waterperry is not just a beautiful garden but could also be the venue for a whole day out as there is so much more to see than just the gardens, which are lovely. The garden was founded by Beatrix Potter as a school of horticulture for young ladies in the 1930’s. While wandering around the garden s you will find beautiful trees, shrubs, orchards, formal and informal areas, secret rooms and longs vistas. The 200 foot, south facing, herbaceous bed is particularly inspiring. With the use of careful planting there is stunning colour from Spring to the frosts of Autumn. Even in late September a wide variety of Asters give a glorious show. All around the garden are statues and sculptures to add interest. An added bonus for the horticulturalist is that virtually all the plants are labelled and many are grown at Waterperry and are for sale in the shop.

Also on the site is a restored 18th century barn with is used as an art and craft gallery. As well as regular exhibitions in the barn there is a permanent selection of items for sale. This is a great place to buy unusual and tasteful gifts for birthdays or Christmas. Talking of Christmas at the end of November there is a Christmas fair. Father Christmas will be in attendance and there are many Christmas activities such as demonstrations of how to make a Christmas wreath, children’s activities, gluwein and mince pies, special present ideas and gift wrapping service.

A more recent addition to the attractions at Waterperry is the County Life Museum where there is a fascinating collection of old farm machinery and implements. In my experience this is where the men seem to slope off to when the women head into the shop. The shop is a cornucopia of everything to do with plants and gardening, All the stock is of an extremely high quality and in all price brackets. Whether it’s a present for yourself or a gardening friend you will be sure to find it here. In the garden centre you can buy many of the plants you have seen in the gardens and also fruits of the season grown in the orchards, (including 15 different varieties of apple)

The 13th century Saxon church is a peaceful place to visit while at Waterperry. It is a lovely place to sit and reflect for a moment and admire the original stained glass windows.

A visit to the Pear Tree tea rooms is not to be missed while at Waterperry. Here you can enjoy a range of home cooked snacks or meals. The home made soup is not to be missed. If the weather is kind you can take your meal onto the lawn to take advantage of the lovely surroundings.

Waterperry is very high on our list of ‘good days out’ There really is something for everyone here and you could easily spend the best part of a day enjoying all Waterperry has to offer.