
It was only by chance that I heard that Jervaulx Hall gardens were going to be open. It was a private opening for the Bainbridge WI and Askrigg Flower Club but as we found out when we arrived the gardens had been open the day before as advertised on the National Gardens Scheme website, all proceeds went to charity on that day. We also know now that the gardens will be open again on Wednesday 10th August and possibly the last time for this year. Whether the gardens will be opened more frequently next year we wait and see. The hall is found in between Masham and East Witton in the Yorkshire Dales.
What a lovely couple of hours we spent though wandering this eight acre site which is next door to Jervaulx Abbey, with glimpses of the ruined abbey as you walk along, and views of the River Ure to the north. A relatively new garden, with planting started about seven years ago and still with new projects coming along but attention to enhancing what was already there too and working with the land.
Wandering the paths with long vistas through the garden, enjoying the shrubs and flowers in the mixed beds and borders, of course, and some trees so ancient and stately to wonder at, a low hum of bees and a glorious scent as we strolled past the lavender. Interesting contemporary sculptures by various artists add to the peaceful ambience. There is a croquet lawn, glasshouse, vegetable garden and a new addition just being created is the small Tufa Garden, so will be interesting to follow its progress as it matures.
Our lovely cottages are all within easy distance of Jervaulx Hall and if you are here please do visit. Of course Jervaulx Abbey, next door, is open for most of the year but do check their website for details. To book a holiday please do call me Nadine or my daughter Joanne on 01969 663559 for friendly help and advice or of course you can book online on our user friendly website. Hear from you quite soon!

Written By Nadine Bell