Felley Priory Garden

Felley Priory Garden, located in north Nottinghamshire, is a hidden gem when considering it is located only half a mile from the M1 motorway. The gardens surround a Tudor manor house built on the site of a former Augustinian priory, originally founded in 1156 and dissolved in 1536 – but, fortunately it was not destroyed completely.

The present garden layout dates from 1976 and since the priory is 600ft above sea level and very exposed, the yew hedges provide shelter for the herbaceous borders. Thoughtful planting ensures that something is always in bloom, making the garden a delight in every season. In spring, visitors are greeted by carpets of bluebells and yellow, apricot, white and orange daffodils – some of which are extremely rare. There is also a stunning collection of both herbaceous peonies and tree peonies.

The herbaceous borders are the highlight of the summer months, and the walled garden is filled with old fashioned roses.  This area was one of the first parts of the garden to be established and was designed to reflect the age and brickwork of the priory itself. In the autumn, colour continues via an extensive collection of hydrangeas, including rare varieties. In winter, the topiary is still an outstanding feature with the bushes shaped into swans, castles and peacocks, whilst the start of the year heralds the arrival of 60 varieties of snowdrops. The collection is made up of the usual white snowdrops, as well as some rarer yellow types.

Not surprisingly, Felley Priory was named a finalist in the National Garden Scheme’s “Nation’s Favourite Gardens” competition in 2021, a testament to its enduring appeal.

https://www.felleypriory.co.uk/