Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #47231 in Books
• Published on: 2007-11-01
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 256 pages

Review
'This is one of the most alluring gardening books I have seen in a long time, giving a real sense of a unique location. What a refreshing change from all those good-looking coffee-table books that try to cram a whole world of gardening into one breathless, door-stopping volume. Tim Longville's engaging and informative text draws us into the green-fingered worlds of an eclectic range of owners and gardeners, and Val Corbett's sensitive, evocative photography has been faithfully reproduced to the highest standards. All are in a generous format that enables you to wallow in the green glories of a compellingly scenic region far more blessed than bothered by its climate.' --Kathryn Bradley Hole, Country Life

Leaves you with a fierce pride of Cumbria's rich and varied landscape, and buying this as a gift is the perfect excuse to share it all. --Cumbria Life

For those yet to experience the beauty of the Lake District first hand, this book is the next best thing. --English Garden

Synopsis
The Lake District has a long history of distinguished gardens in many different styles, thanks to its dramatic landscape - lakes and mountains that make unbeatable backdrops - and unique conditions - including reliable moisture - which suit a wide range of plants. This book selects thirty-six gardens (all open to the public) that exemplify this heritage and will delight both readers at home and visitors to the area. Among the gardens are seventeenth-century Levens Hall, renowned for its topiary; Picturesque gardens such as Rydal Hall; woodland and parkland gardens; gardens made by Wordsworth and Ruskin; grand nineteenth-century rhododendron gardens; elaborate gardens designed by or in the style of Windermere-based Thomas Mawson; and contemporary plantsman's gardens. While Val Corbett's truly outstanding photographs capture their beauty, Tim Longville describes the history of each garden and the 'philosophy' behind its creation.

It presents a different view of one of Britain's most popular tourist destinations: takes readers beyond the lakes and fells to other treasures of the area; superb photography; all the gardens described are open to visitors; and includes each garden owner's choice of favourite plants, with explanations of the plants' virtues and the purposes and situations for which they are suited.