Hand Picked Hotels reside in some of Britain’s finest parkland, so why not join us for what has been a very special year for England’s gardens.
Befittingly, it is the 300th anniversary of Capability Brown, and Fawsley Hall Hotel & Spa in Northamptonshire is set in nine acres of formal grounds designed by the infamous landscape gardener in about 1763, and remains generally intact.
It is the perfect example of how Brown changed the face of eighteenth century England, with elegant and cohesive landscaped gardens that looked like they run on indefinitely. The country estate at Fawlsey Hall, appears seamless owing to his use of the sunk fence (or ‘ha-ha’) to trick ones eye into believing that different pieces of parkland, are one, while the various expansive lakes, at different levels and unconnected, almost look like a river effortlessly flowing through the landscape.
You are also likely to find serenity in the forty acres of peaceful and secluded gardens that surround Rhinefield House. Nestled in the heart of Hampshire’s New Forest National Park, Dorset – which in itself is worth a visit, the hotel’s 40 acres of private grounds are made up of ornamental ponds and gardens, sweeping lawns and classical-style monuments. With each season adds a unique charm, and it is the ideal retreat for any garden lover.
Buxted Park Hotel is also set in an ancient area of tranquil open heathland – its 312 acres of parkland lie deep within the Ashdown Forest. Boasting three large lakes, woodland and a deer park, it is a great place for walking and enjoying the spectacular views that East Sussex has to offer. Home to 50 fallow deer, known as Dama Dama, which can be seen during quiet times grazing the sward, much of the land is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its acid grassland, parkland trees and rare invertebrates such as beetles and flies.
From dramatic historic landscapes designed by Capability Brown to majestic water terraces, and fragrant rose gardens, our venues enjoy some of the most spectacular parkland and represent the ultimate getaway if you want to celebrate the Year of the English Garden in style before it’s too late.
