Perfume Pavilion

The garden

Nowadays, we often associate perfume with bottles of essential oils produced through chemical manufacturing processes. This garden serves as a reminder that scent originates in botany and pays tribute to nature’s extraordinary sensory power.

Imaginarily set in the Cotswolds, the Perfume Pavilion Feature Garden, designed by Liz Nicholson, Freddie Gibbs, Ruby Simpson and Dean Parsons offers a myriad of fragrances. From the soothing essential oils of Lavandula and the heady and nostalgic aroma of Lonicera (honeysuckle), to the intoxicating punch of Daphne and the summery sweetness of Phlox, this space is immersed in scent. Two pavilions take centre stage, revealing a secret of the perfume world: the importance of foliage. Here, a display demonstrates how geranium leaves – not its flowers – provide that iconic, fresh smell we all know and love. 

Beyond its olfactory appeal, the garden is designed as a full sensory experience, inviting visitors to hear the rustle of leaves, taste Origanum vulgare (oregano) or Thymus vulgaris (common thyme) and engage in a visual feast of mauves and dusty pinks, cool greys and deep greens. It seeks to engage far beyond the eye, aiming to lift the mood of passers-by and reminding us of the real significance of nature. 

The designers – Nicholsons Garden Design

Liz (Managing Director) has designed Cotswold gardens for 25 years. A chartered environmentalist, she places sustainability at the heart of her work, shaping landscapes to suit client needs and local character. She focuses on delivering strong solutions within budget and is an RHS senior garden judge, supporting its sustainability goals.

Freddie (Creative Director) has been with Nicholsons for over nine years and is now a Director. He leads with a focus on detail and effective delivery, taking a solution-led approach to some of the company’s largest and most prestigious projects.

Ruby (Senior Garden Designer) has over 10 years’ experience in garden and planting design. With a background in plant nurseries, she brings extensive plant knowledge and leads on planting design and style across Nicholsons’ projects.

Dean (Assistant Landscape Architect) combines 15 years of practical and academic experience in landscape architecture, design and ecology. His multidisciplinary approach supports the delivery of thoughtful, high-quality landscape solutions.

The garden legacy

After the show, all hard landscaping materials will be used in other gardens, including the green houses and water feature. The larger plants and trees will go on to other gardens.