There are such a lot of lovely gardens to visit within easy reach of Bishop Auckland that it is hard to choose which to go to but here are just a few that were visited by some of our members this summer.
West Tanfield Gardens
The village of West Tanfield is on the banks of the river Ure in North Yorkshire and their gardens were open 14th and 15th June. This open garden event was held to raise money for urgent repairs needed for St Nicholas, the village church.
There were 18 gardens to see, all in fairly close proximity, the cost was £5 and refreshments were served in the village hall. All the refreshment produce was home-made and I have to say there are some excellent bakers in the village, and the price was exceptionally low.
Some of the gardens were a work in progress but nevertheless still plenty to see and smell. Some of the gardens were actually on the banks of the river affording beautiful views with plenty of opportunity to watch the birdlife. The photo of the doorway is 13th century and that part of the building is used as a very posh tool shed! Walking through the doorway led you to the back garden which was on the banks of the river.
Unfortunately the gardens won’t be open next year, they are planning to open them every 2 years, however, the gardens of the nearby village Snape will be open instead.
Article and photos: Sue McG
Wolsingham Village Garden Open Day
After a break of three years it was a pleasure to see that the Wolsingham Village Garden Open Day was being held again in 2025 and it was well attended by our Garden Group members.
The weather could have been better as there was a fine drizzle most of the afternoon but it was a warm day and, at worst, most of us were slightly damp.
The gardens and the allotments provided a great display of trees, shrubs, flowers, fruits and vegetables and it was lovely to see the chickens enjoying their run alongside the tomatoes and beans.
Refreshments could be found in the community centre hall where a drink plus cake, scone, or other items were on sale for the princely sum of £3.
All in all a nice afternoon out.
Article and photos: Pam T with input from other members
Thornton Hall Gardens
As well as the usual late May Bank Holiday, Thornton Hall was open on eight Wednesdays during June and July. Some of our garden members visited on the last two opening days of the year; 9th and 16th July. It is quite amazing the difference that six weeks can make to a garden. The structure obviously remains the same but there are marked differences in the plants that are in season and the colours throughout the gardens. As usual there was the pop-up tearoom with delicious scones and cakes.
Article and photos: Pam T/Norman P