Ep 2. The 18th Century

The Secret History of the British Garden season 1 episode 2, titled "The 18th Century," explores the development of gardening in Britain during the 18th century. The episode delves into the changing social and political landscape of the time and how this affected the way gardens were designed and used.

Presenter Monty Don takes us on a journey through some of the most iconic British gardens of the 18th century. He discusses the rise of the landscape garden, which replaced the more formal and structured gardens of earlier centuries. This new style of garden was inspired by classical landscape painting and sought to create a naturalistic and picturesque setting.

We are taken to Stowe House, which is perhaps the most famous example of an 18th-century landscape garden. Monty Don explains how the garden was designed to lead the visitor on a journey through various "scenes," each one carefully crafted to create a sense of drama and surprise.

The episode also looks at the role of gardening in politics. We are introduced to a group of gardeners known as the "Horticultural Society of London," which was founded in 1804. Monty Don explains how this group of gardeners became a powerful force in British society, influencing everything from agricultural policy to the design of public parks.

We are also given a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy landowners who commissioned these gardens. Monty Don visits the grand house of Chiswick, which was home to Lord Burlington, one of the most influential patrons of the arts in the 18th century. We learn how Burlington's passion for gardening led him to create one of the most important gardens in British history, as well as his role in bringing the Palladian style of architecture to Britain.

The episode also explores the impact of new plant discoveries from around the world. We see the introduction of exotic plants from Asia and the Americas, which added new colors, textures, and scents to British gardens. We visit Kew Gardens, which was founded in the late 18th century, and learn about the role it played in cataloging and preserving these new plants.

Throughout the episode, Monty Don emphasizes the importance of gardening in British culture and history, and how it continues to shape the country to this day. He argues that the 18th century was a pivotal time in the development of British gardening, laying the groundwork for the amazing gardens we can still visit today.

Overall, "The 18th Century" is an engaging and informative episode that sheds light on a fascinating period in British history. Whether you are a passionate gardener or simply interested in British culture, this episode is sure to captivate and inform.