About the garden
Owned by
Christine Liddle
Birkheads Secret Gardens are a garden visitor's dream. Developed by the present owners since 1978, it enjoys expansive rural views across the valley to a neighbouring visitor attraction, Beamish Open Air Museum.
Diversely themed gardens are connected by mixed borders of hardy shrubs and perennials created with colour schemes to run through the seasons, an inspiration to new and experienced gardeners alike. Formal topiary in the House Garden contrasts with the relaxed planting of wildflower meadows by leading visitors along meandering paths through a Woodland Garden with unusual trees and bulbs, past newt and frog ponds with dragonflies.
In the Cottage Garden, an apple orchard was planted in 2018 surrounded by the existing collection of snowdrops and daffodils. Nearby is the Bee and Butterfly Garden, spectacular from June until late summer when flowers give way to autumn foliage and fruits. Visitors love the serenity of the Meditation Garden and various seats to quietly watch the many different bird species living in and around the gardens. The Wishing Tree, Fairy Glade and Treasure Island are quirky gardens with 'treasure' donated by regular visitors; remember to bring a key to make a wish! The original house (1830) garden is now a topiary garden with tea terraces.
The cafe serves excellent coffee with hot and cold light meals, snacks, cakes and tempting desserts. For plant hunters, the adjoining nursery is a must, where keen or new gardeners can purchase a wide range of hardy and unusual home-grown plants. Advice is available on how and where to grow them by the owner Christine Liddle, an enthusiastic horticulturalist, nurserywoman and professional garden designer. It’s well worth a visit at any time because visitors always find something of interest.
