RHS Garden Bridgewater: The Making of a Garden

The Royal Horticultural Society's (RHS) Garden Bridgewater, nestled in the heart of the North West, is a testament to the art and science of garden making. This 154-acre masterpiece, lovingly restored to its former glory, is not just a garden; it's a living, breathing narrative of horticultural history and innovation. Let's delve into the making of this extraordinary garden.

Bridgewater's story begins in the 18th century when it was commissioned by the 3rd Duke of Bridgewater. Designed by the renowned landscape architect Lancelot 'Capability' Brown, the garden was a vision of the picturesque, with its serpentine lake, rolling lawns, and grand avenues of trees. However, like many great estates, it fell into disrepair over time.

The Restoration Journey

In the late 20th century, the RHS took on the challenge of restoring Bridgewater to its former glory. The project was mammoth, involving the restoration of historic features, the creation of new gardens, and the introduction of modern horticultural practices.

The restoration was not just about reclaiming the past but also about looking to the future. The RHS aimed to create a garden that would inspire and educate, a place where visitors could connect with nature and learn about plants and gardening.

Reviving Historic Features

One of the first tasks was to restore the garden's historic features. The team painstakingly repaired the lake, replanted the avenues of trees, and reinstated the grand parterre garden. They also uncovered and restored the garden's original design, using historic maps and records to guide their work.

This process involved a deep dive into horticultural history. The team had to source heritage plant varieties, some of which were rare or even thought to be extinct. They also had to use traditional gardening techniques, such as hotbeds and cold frames, to propagate plants.

Creating New Gardens

While much of the garden was about reclaiming the past, the RHS also saw an opportunity to create something new. They designed a series of contemporary gardens that would showcase modern horticultural practices and plant varieties.

These new gardens include the Fruit and Vegetable Garden, which demonstrates sustainable and organic growing methods, and the Winter Garden, which celebrates plants that provide interest in the colder months. There's also the Chinese Hillside, a garden inspired by the natural beauty of China's landscapes.

Horticultural Innovation

Bridgewater is not just a garden; it's a living laboratory. The RHS uses the garden to test and trial new plants and growing methods, pushing the boundaries of horticultural practice.

One of the most exciting areas of research is the garden's trial grounds. Here, the RHS tests thousands of plants each year, assessing their performance in terms of hardiness, disease resistance, and aesthetic appeal. The results of these trials are shared with gardeners across the UK, helping to shape the way we garden.

Plant Conservation

Bridgewater is also at the forefront of plant conservation. The garden is home to the National Collection of Erythronium, a genus of plants that includes the popular dog's-tooth violet. The RHS grows and propagates these plants, ensuring their survival for future generations.

The garden also plays a crucial role in the conservation of native wildlife. The team manages the garden's habitats to support a diverse range of species, from bees to birds. They also run a program of citizen science, involving volunteers in the monitoring and protection of these species.

Visiting RHS Garden Bridgewater is more than just a day out in the countryside. It's a journey through horticultural history, a chance to see the future of gardening, and an opportunity to connect with nature in all its glory. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a first-time visitor, there's always something new to discover at Bridgewater. So, why not put on your walking boots and explore this extraordinary garden for yourself?