A Walk to one of England’s Most Iconic Gardens
As I am writing this blog post, the participants of the first Scenic Guided Tour of 2022 are departing on their journey back home after a week of exploring the beautiful Cotswolds countryside. Reflecting on the week I spent with the group, I wanted to share photos taken on a day that stood out for me not only because I always enjoy this walk to one of England’s most iconic gardens, Hidcote, but also because by day 3 into the tour, it felt like as if the members of our group have known each other for a long time. Having spent two years without being able to travel and connect with fellow travellers and locals during the height of the pandemic, it was truly special to see the group building camaraderie, sharing inside jokes and having meaningful conversations.
On day 3 of the tour, we took a circular walk from the Cotswolds market town of Chipping Campden to the Arts and Crafts-inspired gardens of Hidcote Manor and Kiftsgate Court. The English weather stayed true to itself, surprising us with sunshine and showers alike, which only added more interest to the colourful display of wildflowers and exquisite border designs with the incredibly green countryside as the backdrop.
I hope you will enjoy scrolling through these photos and if you wish to join us here in the Cotswolds, there are a few places left on our September tours.
Meeting at the Market Hall in Chipping Campden to discuss plans for the day
Setting out on the walk, passing the Almshouses built in 1612
Passing St James’ Church, one of the finest woolchurches in the Cotswolds
Wildflowers such as Queen Anne’s lace or cow parsley decorate field boundaries throughout the spring and summer months
At a “crossroads” of footpaths, one of which is the Monarch’s Way, England’s second longest waymarked trail
The promise of tea and cake at the tearooms of Kiftsgate Court Gardens put a spring in our step
The idyllic sight of cows and horses grazing in a beautiful field called for a stop to capture the moment
At the entrance of Hidcote Manor – clematis and roses provide a beautiful frame to the door of the manor house
Alliums are putting on a particularly stunning show this year, flanking this and many other paths in the garden
The rain didn’t take anything away from the beauty of the gardens
Inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement, the garden comprises of outdoor ‘rooms’
The garden “rooms” are full of surprises, such as this extraordinary water feature, the mirror pool
Many of the rare and exotic plants were collected by the brilliant American horticulturist, Major Lawrence Johnston
The beautiful hornbeam tunnel
The “long walk”, flanked by hornbeam hedges
On the way to Kiftsgate Court Gardens
A quintessentially English sight, with sheep grazing as we cross the pasture
 Husband and wife team Andrew and Elizabeth Guppy lead Cotswold Walks, specialising in customised self-guided and guided walking holidays in the Cotswolds. Living and working in the Cotswolds is an essential part of what makes their company special. As avid walkers, they can often be found walking the routes with their dog Indie. Andrew and Elizabeth are passionate about what they do. They strive to take you on a tour that showcases the best of the Cotswolds, from iconic gardens and fabulous local food, to sweeping vistas over the emerald green countryside dotted with honey-coloured cottages. Through careful planning and attention to detail, the mission of Cotswold Walks is to ensure you have complete peace of mind, so you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the Cotswolds and create lasting memories. Slow Travel Tours is an affiliation of small-group tour operators who offer personalized trips in Italy, France, England and other European countries. |
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