Herb Society Update

We entered through one of the many ornate gates which we would open and close on our tour. This led us to the famous Thyme Walk with the spectacular golden yew topiary sculptures. The Woodland Garden is a mysterious magical place enhanced with a stumpery garden and many of the collections of Hostas and Ferns. The Southern Hemisphere Garden has a collection of Tree Ferns.

The Walled Garden is where organic vegetables, herbs and fruit are grown for use by the household. The Arboretum and Sanctuary Garden was only created in 1994, and the area is filled with native tree species. The Sanctuary is a peaceful place of contemplation based on the principles of sacred geometry and made entirely of natural materials. A beautiful sculpture by American Sculptor Frederick Hart, ‘The Daughters of Odessa’ was placed in this area.

The Wildflower Meadow and famous Tulip Walk led us up to the house and the very striking Black and White Garden, and then to the delightful Terrace Garden which was full of colour and scent.

The Cottage Garden, with its lovely Whitebeam and Herbaceous borders, and the Topiary Garden, where much clipping goes on, were next. The Orchard Garden is under-planted with one species of lavender (Imperial Gem).

The Carpet Garden - based on a Turkish-style carpet at Highgrove House had been exhibited at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2001 – and it brought us to the end of our tour. At the Orchard Room a welcome seat awaited and we were served with tea and biscuits. After purchasing our souvenirs at the Highgrove Shop we reluctantly left having had a truly marvellous experience. At 11pm we arrived back in Aberfeldy exhausted but happy - A day to remember!