Sorry Folks CANCELLED. Lace & Wool Create a Great Day Out:
So sorry that we have had to cancel our annual jolly for reasons beyond our control, but fear not, we will be back again next year with another gardens packed day next year.
What better time of year for a coach trip to glorious Devon than June?
First a short stop in Tiverton, whose history reaches way back into the depths of time. This area being occupied right from the Stone Age, through the reign of King Alfred’s Wessex, Normans and their castle building,
Middle Ages and prosperity with the wool trade. The Heatcote factory still manufactures specialist textiles here.
Afterwards we head for Knightshayes Court.
Both sites have historic links to the lace and wool trade.
Grade I listed Knighthayes Court, just outside Tiverton is an eccentric Victorian gothic mansion which nestles in acres of gardens and parkland. The house itself is true to Victorian’s love of gothic design, it was designed by William Burges for the Heathcote Amory family who made their fortune from lace-making.
Their Grade II listed gardens, originally designed by Edward Kemp, hold more than an amazing 12,000 unique plant species, enough to keep any intrepid plant lover and photographer transfixed for their time there.
Like so many gardens of the English large country houses, WWI had a detrimental effect and they lay abandoned until the 1970’s. Thankfully six of those gardens have been lovingly restored.
The formal garden boasts not only breathtaking views but terraces which soak in the glorious scent and colour of nearby rose beds.
Their walled kitchen garden is in full production, its fresh produce used in the cafe.
Added to this are the Pool garden, Paved garden, Garden in the Wood with its quirky topiary, South Garden which holds a collection of exotic trees and a wildflower meadow.
Beyond that lies Knightshayes parkland complete with woodland walks, wild play area and acres of tenanted farmland.
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The cost is £29.50 per head.
Concessions are available.
Discount of £11.00 to National Trust members (but you must remember to bring your NT membership card to get free admittance.)
Reduction for NT child rate where applicable.
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Details
Saturday 29th June
Departing Old Spa 9.00 (sharp)
Arrive Tiverton 11.00
Depart 12.15
Arrive Knightshayes 12.30
Depart 17.30
Arrive Old Spa 19-30
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You can use the booking form below or;
Contact Dave Cave to pay by cheque or cash.
Cheques should be made payable to “Friends of Radipole Park and Gardens”
Please pay by post or in person to
Dave Cave (FORPAG membership Sec and Treasurer)
76 Carlton Road North
Weymouth DT4 7PZ
Tel 01305 779112
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