The Great Gardens of England Season 1 Episode 6 Gardeners Views - Episode 6

In episode 6 of The Great Gardens of England season 1, titled "Gardeners Views," we get an inside look at some of the most remarkable gardens in the country through the eyes of the gardeners themselves.

Throughout the episode, we are introduced to a variety of individuals who have dedicated their lives to the art of gardening. From head gardeners at grand estates to volunteers at community gardens, each person has their own unique approach and philosophy when it comes to cultivating beautiful and functional outdoor spaces.

We first meet David Stone, head gardener at Mottisfont Abbey in Hampshire. He takes us on a tour of the estate's impressive walled garden, which dates back to the 13th century. As he explains his pruning techniques and shows off the diverse range of plants grown on the estate, it's clear that David has a true passion for his work.

Next, we visit the National Trust property of Stourhead in Wiltshire, where head gardener Alan Power talks about the importance of creating a sense of drama in garden design. We see the result of his efforts as we stroll through the estate's iconic landscape garden, complete with a man-made lake, temples, and a grotto.

Moving on to the Cotswolds, we meet up with Anthea Guthrie, a volunteer gardener at Batsford Arboretum. Anthea speaks about the joy she gets from working in the garden and highlights the importance of creating habitats for wildlife within the space. As we wander through the arboretum's vast collection of trees and shrubs, it's clear that the volunteers' hard work has paid off, creating a peaceful and harmonious outdoor space.

The episode then takes us to the seaside town of Brighton, where we meet landscape architect Tom Lonsdale. Tom shows us around a public park that he has recently designed, implementing sustainable practices and creating a space that is both functional and beautiful. He talks about the challenges of urban gardening and the importance of involving the local community in the design process.

Finally, we head to the Cambridgeshire countryside to meet up with Phil Stigwood, head gardener at Anglesey Abbey. Phil shows us around the estate's winter garden, which boasts an array of plants specifically chosen for their ability to thrive in colder temperatures. He explains his approach to garden design and the importance of considering the changing seasons when planning outdoor spaces.

Throughout the episode, we get a glimpse into the passion, dedication, and creativity that goes into creating and maintaining stunning gardens. From the ancient walls of Mottisfont Abbey to the modern park in Brighton, each space is a testament to the hard work and vision of the gardeners who tend to them. "Gardeners Views" is a must-watch for anyone with an interest in gardening or a love of beautiful outdoor spaces.