Shipley Open Gardens

In common with many towns and villages across Britain, Shipley now has an annual 'Open Gardens' weekend to raise money for charity. A small percentage of the population who adore their gardens (and gardening) throw open their gates to fellow aficionados and those (like me!) who love gardens but hate gardening. (I don't suppose the rest of the population, those who are indifferent to gardens, even notice it's happening.) It amuses me that for one weekend there is almost a 'secret society' on the streets of Shipley: those walking around clutching yellow leaflets with the all-important map showing participating gardens. There is usually a cheery 'hello' or a friendly nod as you pass another yellow paper bearer! It's all very convivial - and many of the gardens provide refreshments and/or sell plants, so there is chance to chat and come away with a cutting to try in your own little green patch. 

I love looking round and it usually provides some opportunity for a few photos along the way: beautiful vistas, interesting individual plants and vignettes like the display below. This year several gardens were also displaying sculptures, ceramics and art work and it was fun to spot those, although not always clear whether what you were seeing was a permanent garden fixture or just a visiting exhibit. Not that it mattered, it was all interesting and rather lovely. 

I absolutely adored these ceramic fish swimming in their sea of green fronds - utterly inspired! And then... ooh, hello!