Christmas is a time for exploring...
More than any other time of year, at Christmas we tend to bring the garden inside rather than venture out. Trees come indoors, along with wreaths, garlands, holly, bunches of mistletoe and seasonal plants such as poinsettias and amaryllis. These additions bring colour, scent and decoration to our homes at this festive time of year.
Although it is lovely to appreciate these winter delights inside, we shouldn’t forget that there is much to be appreciated outdoors too.
When you think of a Christmas garden, holly, robins, yew and fir trees come to mind. If lucky, a hard frost or dusting of snow will finish off the perfect Christmas scene.
However there is much more to explore in gardens open to the public this year. Many gardens take this time of year to create experiences for visitors beyond the traditional daylight hours which allows them to be appreciated in a completely different way.
Wrap up warm and explore these gardens
Kew is globally renowned for its gardens which are normally visited during daylight hours. This December however, there is a chance to experience the gardens in an altogether different way. Visit after dark for a magical spectacle. Trees are lit up to show their wonderful shapes, a fire garden creates a wonderful display and you may even spot Father Christmas.
Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, Goudhurst Kent
Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest has more than 12,000 specimens planted over 300 acres. If lucky enough to visit their Christmas event, you will see beautiful illuminations with over one million Christmas lights.
Always a delight day or night, Wisley is definitely worth a visit. From the illuminated wisteria walk to an amazing horticultural display inside the Glasshouse with a white Christmas theme. It’s reassuring to know that sustainability is always a consideration for an event like this and unsurprisingly, RHS Wisley has kept environmental impact and energy usage for the event to a minimum. The shop is also a perfect place to find presents for garden lovers and special Christmas decorations.
Christmas Trees
Christmas isn’t Christmas without a tree, and if in London, there are some spectacular specimens to be seen, not all of them are what you might expect.
Traditional trees include the UK grown Covent Garden Christmas tree which comes in at 60 feet this year and has over 115,000 lights. Thanks to our friends in Norway, Trafalgar Square always has an impressive specimen on display and this year is no exception.
If looking for something less traditional, then Claridge’s hotel is the place to visit. This year they have gone for a modern design led approach. Jimmy Choo's Sandra Choi has sculpted a tree from mirrors and pulsing lights to create a diamond-like experience.
St Pancras International, always partner with businesses or charities and this year has unveiled its latest Christmas Tree. In partnership with The Prince’s Trust. Less tree and more installation it takes inspiration from the London skyline, and at 33ft tree shows much of London’s architecture and is lit to create a warm glow.
We wish all our clients well this Christmas, whether enjoying Christmas indoors or venturing out to explore some inspirational gardens and trees.
If we can help you with your garden then please get in touch. You can reach us on 0207 305 7183 or email at enquire@alasteranderson.com
