The Bog Garden

Northumberland break 13

Wandering round Howick Hall Gardens, I arrived at this attractive pond - the Bog Garden - surrounded by luxuriant planting. It really was rather lovely. I was tempted just to sit and contemplate it all from one of the seats but there was so much else I wanted to see in the day that I didn't dally. 

I didn't recognise some of the plants, though there were bulbous yellow blooms that were possibly Trollius - the globe flower - and mauve lupins. Lots of flag iris too, both yellow and purple. They were one of my mum's favourites. 

 

There was also an area of garden set aside as a sensory garden for those with autism. It had lots of texture, interesting objects and shapes, different surfaces and colour, all carefully curated, I understand, to offer a safe and stimulating environment for neurodiverse people,  There were some discreet signs asking people to leave things exactly as you found them, since predictability of surroundings can apparently be important. I was really impressed with Howick Hall Gardens; if you're ever in Northumberland I recommend a visit.