On Tuesday, 4th July, 33 members and associates of the BGA partook in a coach outing to Deene Park in Northamptonshire. Grade 1 listed Deene Park is the ancestral and current home of the Brudenell family. The house dates back 500 years and has a fascinating history, which was relayed to the BGA visitors via a guided tour.
Many characters are commemorated with their stories being brought to life by the Deene Park guides.
Of note, the Earl of Cardigan and his faithful horse Ronald both of who were the leading characters in the Charge of the Light Brigade, are commemorated with an account of the battle being portrayed. Ronald himself can be seen (well, his head, tail and hooves) as he is preserved and on display at Deene Park!
After lunch, which was taken in the delightful old tearooms, we were free to wander the beautiful gardens. Deene Park has a beautiful box edged parterre designed by David Hicks. A striking feature throughout are the clipped box in the shape of teapots. Tea was the favourite drink of the late Edmund Brudenell.
The borders were filled with many varied herbaceous perennials, one of which was the beautiful smelling Heliotrope ‘Cherry Pie’. Many attendees purchased the Heliotrope from the gift shop, resulting in the journey home on the coach being a sensory delight.
Paula Church
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