6th August 2026 - Evening Charity Garden Visit

Our charity garden visit was to Naworth Castle, Brampton; the ancestral home of Philip Howard. Again the weather was perfect. Philip's garden has been redesigned by Tom Stuart-Smith.

https://www.tomstuartsmith.co.uk

The eighteenth century garden now has a kitchen garden, a wild flower meadow and cutting garden. Here the planting represents the union of the English and Scottish flags (reflecting a time far removed from Edward I holding court at Lanercost).  

We raised £1,000 for Hospice at Home

 (£700 from members that was generously topped up by £300 by Philip)

Pimms and canapés were served in the great hall, where some of Philips's taxidermy collection is on display.

So many thanks for our visit Philip.

Your may like to read Sue Stuart-Smith's book:

 

Written by Liz Webster & Trish

30th July 2026 - Members' Social Evening & Garden Visits

What a treat! Two beautiful, adjacent but very different gardens within the curtilage of old "Low Allenwood Farm" in Broadwath. Though different, there is a commonality of theme: sensitive design to complement the landscape.

For almost a decade, Lorrie Coupland has been busy turning her hilly orchard into a delightful terraced cottage style garden. By terracing and making new beds the loamy soil has allowed more plant species to thrive.

In contrast, Sandi Booth's sun drenched, more open landscaped garden has allowed her to create an explosion of fabulous shrubs, perennials and annuals. The design provides almost 'a vase' for the planting to unite in its profusion.

As the evening wore on there was convivial conversation, liquid refreshments and tasty nibbles.

Thank you Ladies, Better Halves & Les (for the field parking).