Saturday, 7th June featured torrential rain and high winds which did not bode well for the open gardens of the following day. However, the clouds dissipated and a gentle sun warmed the 320 or so people who enjoyed the stunning gardens which 15 of Bratton’s residents so generously opened for the day.
There were small gardens, large gardens and enormous gardens for us to enjoy, ranging from tranquil, mainly green spaces to scent laded rose collections to those plots still developing, all with different moods and personalities. It took those intrepid enough to visit each space five full hours to complete the circuit but, what a truly wonderful journey it was!
One of the most special things about visiting the gardens was appreciating, not only the hard work that went into preparing the gardens for the day, but, the incredibly warm welcome the owners gave as they took time to speak to their guests and to answer questions. It made for a very special atmosphere.
The Church Institute sold refreshments all day for those in need of a rest and a calorie boost while Bratton Plant Centre offered a variety of plants for sale.