Hidcote - an influential 20th century garden

Hidcote Manor Garden, in the Cotswolds, is one of the greatest gardens in England. It was created by a talented American horticulturist, Major Lawrence Johnston, in the early 20th century.

Hidcote is near the pretty hamlet of Hidcote Bartrim, near Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire. It is one of the best-known and most influential Arts and Crafts gardens, with its linked "garden rooms" of hedges, rare trees, shrubs and herbaceous borders. The garden is now owned by the National Trust and is open to the public.

Lawrence Johnston and his mother settled in Britain about 1900, and Lawrence immediately became a British citizen and fought in the British army during the Boer war.

In 1907 Johnston's mother purchased the Hidcote Manor Estate. Lawrence transformed the previously neglected garden into a series of distinct outdoor "rooms," each with its own unique theme and character. He was influenced by the ideas of the Arts and Crafts movement, which was partly based at the nearby village of Broadway.

The garden features a harmonious blend of formal and informal elements, with intricately clipped hedges, vibrant borders, and charming pathways that lead visitors through a botanical journey. Hidcote became a haven for plant enthusiasts and garden lovers, attracting attention for its innovative design and plant combinations.

In 1948, Johnston bequeathed Hidcote to the National Trust, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Today, the garden stands as a testament to Johnston's passion for horticulture and his commitment to creating a living work of art. Visitors from around the world continue to be captivated by Hidcote's enchanting beauty and historical significance, making it a must-see destination for those seeking inspiration in the realm of garden design.

Hidcote - an influential 20th century garden

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