Event Report

Visit to Blackdown House

16th June 2010

On Wednesday 16th June, 28 of our members paid a visit to Blackdown House, Upham, the home of Mr and Mrs Sweet-Escott. It is probably true to say that few of us had ever heard of Blackdown House, and in the event it turned out to be an extremely pleasant surprise.

Mrs Sweet-Escott had hoped to meet us, but due to confusion of dates she was unable to be there and we were greeted by members of the family and staff, with wine and a first class selection of snacks.

The garden was an absolute delight, with the focal point being a magnificent herbaceous border, which whilst looking totally mature, had only, we were told, been in existence for five years. This lead on to an impressively well planted vegetable garden, which in turn led to an orchard and woodland walk terminating in a snail mound.

The gardener and his assistant made themselves available to show us around and answer any questions concerning the garden and the plants.

It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening and there was general agreement that we would love to pay another visit to the garden, perhaps at a different time of year.