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Hatfield House
14th June 2010 • Places to Visit • Stephanie DonaldsonThe weight of their history makes the gardens of Hatfield House impressive at any time of year, but they surpass themselves in June when they overflow with roses. The garden dates from the early 17th century when Robert Cecil, Ist Earl of Salisbury, employed John Tradescant the Elder to collect plants for his new home. Tradescant was sent to Europe where he found and brought back trees, bulbs, plants and fruit trees, which had never previously been grown in England. This beautifully designed garden included orchards, elaborate fountains, scented plants, water parterres, terraces and herb gardens. The East Garden was laid out by the 5th Marquess of Salisbury and the present Dowager Lady Salisbury dedicated 30 years to the restoration and improvement of this garden. The Herb, Knot and Wilderness areas can be seen when the house is open, but the Kitchen Garden and the formal parterres to the East of the house leading down to the lake, are only open on limited days during the Visitor Season. www.hatfield-house.co.uk
Roses in front of the Old Palace