RHS Hyde Hall Visit, 8th June 2024

Though the weather could have been a tad kinder (the wearing of sweaters or jackets in June confirmed climate change rather than global warming). Twenty one members, and a tagged on florist cum gardener, enjoyed a truly informative walk around both the bounds, a hilltop stroll, and the various garden zones. Not only was it an opportunity to renew past friendships, but also to gain an understanding of the history of Hyde Hall from being a farm owned by the Robinson Family in the 1950’s to its transfer to the RHS in 1993.

The ’estate’ covers well over 300 acres, larger than Kew and the largest of the RHS Gardens. Whilst no longer the latest addition to the RHS portfolio (surpassed now by Manchester’s Bridgewater) the gardens have a unique development and management plan. The Essex Landscape with its fauna and flora are being catered for in some quite exciting land management approaches.  RHS gardens Hyde Hall is therefore more than just a horticultural haven and Robert’s vision is clear to all who were present – the wider landscape is embraced and forms the frame around the more formal elements of the gardens.

Of course, zones of horticulture excellence are the foundation of this place. The impressive Dry Garden, the restored Robinson’s original Garden, The Rose Garden (some of us pondering if the Pemberton’s Roses have any indirect connection to our sadly missed Leo). I could list the many zones we visited but suffice to say they were all of high standard. The highlight for me, personally, was the Cottage Garden and the discovery of Valeriana officinalis (Garden Heliotrope, Common Valerian or All-heal) which I shall be using instead of Verbena bonariensis. Its foliage is bolder and scented whilst the flower heads are more striking and associated with larger grasses will I think be spectacular.

All in all, it was a splendid day out and events like these will hopefully become the norm for future years. Thank you, Robert and all the staff at RHS Hyde Hall for making such  a memorable visit.

Robin Bletsoe (Kew 1969 -1972)