Discovering Gardens, History and Heritage

Hello, I’m Jill. I’m a Blue Badge Tourist Guide for Cumbria and Wales, with a love of gardens, historic houses and the stories that bring places to life.

This site is mostly a journal of my discoveries — the gardens I visit, the heritage I uncover, and the reflections I gather along the way.

If you’d like to join me in person, please find out more here.

If you’d just like to read about my adventures throughout England and Wales, have a look at my recent posts below or go to the top to sort by category under Journal.

Sometimes I just want to add a few photos - a snapshot into my life. You can find a sample of these at the bottom of this page. Or to see them all, head to Snapshots.

Life of a Guide ~ My Journal

Featured

A Question of Taste

An autumn wander through Wisley that reminded me that gardens, like art, are deeply personal.

Sheffield Park in Autumn

It was busy and noisy but for a well-being walk at the end of October, it was hard to beat.

A Craving for Colour: Finding brightness in autumn’s greys

From autumn greys in the Lake District to fiery blooms that lifted the day.

Hidcote: Walking Through a Living Tapestry

My favourite garden? Quite possibly….

Exploring Snowshill: A House of Collections, A Garden of Rooms

The most eccentric of English manor houses coupled with a restrained garden.

Sezincote – An Indian Dream in the Cotswolds

I went for the house - I stayed for the garden. Both are enchanting.

Hartland Abbey: a surprise at every turn

House, gardens, woodland walk and beach - what more could you want on a summer’s day?

Trebah - a Journey to the Sea

A poignant journey through a lush garden.

Belonging in the Landscape: The Spirit of Holehird

One of my favourite gardens, I never tire of a visit to Holehird, Cumbria.

Stourhead - Walking Through a Landscape Painting

When you study garden history there are a certain number of gardens talked about that you simply have to visit. This is one of them.

Blenheim Palace: A Landscape of Power and Controversy

Blenheim Palace is one of those places you feel you should visit at least once. It’s not my favourite house or garden but it is most certainly worth visiting.