The project is said to represent one of the final pieces of the original gardens to be reinstated in this ‘long-forgotten’ corner, and there is a new trail and events to help celebrate this landmark year for visitors.
The six-and-a half-acre area of garden has been unrestored for decades, dating back to when Exbury was requisitioned by the Navy in World War Two. The two-year project will restore public access and uncover the rare plants and trees, glades and vistas it contains, originally created in the 1920s.
Commenting on the ‘lost corner’ project, head gardener Tom Clarke said: “This section of the garden was originally planted in the 1920s by Lionel de Rothschild, a visionary horticulturist, and contains some truly magnificent specimens of trees, and many beautiful flowering shrubs.
“This restoration represents one of the final pieces of the original gardens to be reinstated. Over the next couple of years, we’re really looking forward to uncovering and sharing its hidden botanical treasures with visitors. We hope to add another layer to the gardens’ already rich history for the benefit of generations to come.”
What is happening at Exbury to mark its 70th year?
Alongside the restoration project, this year visitors will be able to follow a new 70th anniversary garden trail, spotting the unusual trees, landmarks and horticultural treasures, celebrating each of the seven decades the New Forest attraction has been open to the public.
Events during the year will include the Exbury Festival of Music in August, craft workshops, a steam railway extravaganza and a pop-up pottery.
Exbury Gardens was created by Lionel de Rothschild, who bought the Exbury Estate in the New Forest in 1919 and is renowned for its collection of rare plants and trees, including spring-flowering rhododendrons and azaleas, acres of ornamental and native woodland, and herbaceous gardens. The gardens originally opened to the public in 1955.
Group visits to Exbury Gardens
Exbury Gardens provides opportunities for visitors to see changing horticultural life throughout the year, from rhododendron and azaleas in spring to trees, the summer hydrangeas and gardens and reds, oranges and yellows of the autumn.
A working narrow-gauge steam railway, The Rhododendron Line, travels 1.5 miles through the gardens and visitors can ride the railway at an aditional cost.
The gardens will be open to the public until 2nd November. Groups of 15 or more can visit Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway at a discounted group rate, with benefits including private guided tours, discounted train rides, pre-bookable group meals and free entry for the organiser and coach driver.
For more information about Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway visit www.exbury.co.uk.
