The Secret Gardens were officially opened in 2007 by Gardener’s World host Monty Don and have since gone from strength to strength.

Since the current owners took over in 2004 The Secret Gardens have gone through an extraordinary metamorphosis. The garden was in a total state of neglect; where the charming White Garden stands was once a pile of rubble and the Holm Oak Walk was totally shapeless and overgrown.

Whilst the spirit and style of the original garden has been largely captured, several more modern features have been added such as the Tropical Border. The plants which grow in this sheltered section would simply not have been able to cope with the colder climate back in 1911. Within this area you will find the Wollemi Pine, an incredibly rare plant dating back to the Jurassic period, which is now part of a global conservation project to boost its numbers. The plant has established itself well at The Secret Gardens.

Lake Patricia was added to the Gardens during the 70s. The island can be reached by a small bridge and is a remarkably tranquil place to sit and meditate on the beautiful surroundings. Future plans for this area include the planting of several species of flowering trees and the planting of roses to grow up the large circular arbour to create a flowering canopy.

Situated in the Old Gatehouse you will find the rather special Tea Rooms. With crockery, cake stands and silverware sourced from The Savoy Hotel, the Tea Rooms evoke the elegant Edwardian pastime of taking tea. Cream teas and home-made cakes are just some of the delicious treats on offer.

Guests can also enjoy the spacious wooden terrace which extends from the Gatehouse along the western wall. Shaded by lofty lime trees and with a view of the impressive facade of The Salutation manor house, the terrace allows guests to make the most of fine weather.

Throughout the day light lunches are served including delicious homemade soups, quiches, ploughmans, scrambled eggs with salmon and Welsh rarebit as well as daily specials. If you are in need of a little decadence then try the newly launched Chocolate Cream Tea for Two which consists of chocolate scones with clotted cream, brioche and chocolate sandwiches, seriously chocolatey cake and lots more!

Guided Tours & Audio Tours are also available.