Houghton Hall is 2007 Garden of the Year
The gardens of Houghton Hall in Norfolk have been named as the 2007 Garden of the Year in a competition sponsored by the Historic Houses Association and Christies.
After falling into disrepair, the 2ha walled garden, dating back to the 18th century, was restored and opened to the public in 1996. An area has been retained as a productive kitchen garden but the majority is now a series of rooms with Mediterranean flavours and a Rose Garden of 150 cultivars. A 130m (430ft) herbaceous border dissects the garden leading to the glasshouse at one end, home to a collection of orchids, and rustic temple at the other.
Although the whole garden is a tribute to Sybil, Marchioness of Cholmondeley, grandmother to present owner David, the Pool Garden is his personal memorial.
The award recognises the importance of gardens with outstanding horticultural and public appeal, either in their own right or as the setting for an historic house.
Visit the Houghton Hall website for more information