RHS Bridgewater

Monday
We enjoyed a great day out today at RHS Bridgewater, west of Manchester (Royal Horticultural Society for my American readers). These are new gardens on the site of the Worley New Hall estate. One of the highlights is the magnificent 11-acre Weston Walled garden, one of the largest Victorian walled gardens in the U.K. Then there is the beginnings of the Chinese stream side garden, with a blend of Chinese and British Horticulture, and the Paradise Garden, showcasing exotic planting inspired by Asiatic and Mediterranean gardens. Bernard has been a couple of times before with Janet, and really enjoys going. The weather cooperated too, obliging us with some nice sunny spells. The only complaint we had was the food service. At the cafe we ordered coffees, which we got upon ordering, plus a salad and a 12 inch pizza to share. After waiting about 35 minutes, Roger went up to check, and they said it should be out soon. After another 15 minutes, he went up to check again, and discovered they hadn’t even started the pizza yet, so he cancelled the order and we went without! I’ve since looked at reviews on line, and this is a common complaint. The gardens, however are amazing, especially to say how new they are - they only opened last year is my understanding. I took loads of photos, so it had to be a collage! On our way out, we passed the area where they had a display of birds of prey, from a local rescue and rehabilitation centre - I’ve put a second collage in extras
Step count: 8,402