The Italian Garden at Great Ambrook is exciting and unique for so many reasons. Captivating to visitors, skilfully designed and constructed, it also conceals many mysteries. The garden is a window into a historically less tolerant society where homosexual men were driven to seclusion and a secret life. The use of natural materials and traditional craftsmanship in the detail of the stonework is in keeping with the Arts & Crafts style. The design of this Devon hillside garden, however, with its meandering, serpentine stone pathways, unfolding vistas and bathing opportunities conjures a much more informal, Mediterranean atmosphere. On Saturday 17th May the Italian Garden is opening in aid of the Rowcroft Hospice but there will be an exclusive guided tour for DGT members at 2.00pm, followed by tea and cake.
Championing Devon’s garden heritage