Urchfont Manor open day: Garden grows memories of old

Millionaire owners Chris and Eleanor Legg had spent years working with designer Paul Gazerwitz to get the estate's outdoors ready to be showcased.

Today, Chris and Eleanor confirmed they had more 1100 visitors, raising over £4,000 for local Wiltshire charities as well as the £11,000 for the NGS.

"We are thrilled that the opening has allowed us to contribute to the community which was only possible with good natured support of the volunteers," they said.

On Saturday (June 19) people were able to visit the manor and explore, as part of the National Garden Scheme.

The event also allowed for friends and families to come together, many of whom had their own personal ties to Urchfont Manor. Between1946 to 2012 it had been used as an adult education centre and owned by the county council.

Rosa Parker and Sue Denmark attended Urchfont Manor for training days, and became firm friends after meeting there in around 2003.

"We remember the library," said Sue.

"You would sit out on the lawn on little breakout groups, and it was brilliant. and. In social care where we both worked, there's not really many perks . Whenever you came here, it was a bit rejuvenating and special," said Sue.

Rosa added: "It's amazing to come back, the gardens are amazing. I remember sitting outside and the lunches - they were delicious!"

Robbie Barklem also enjoyed a poignant amble around the gardens. His grandfather, Tom, had worked at the manor for three decades and he, and his mother Jan, said it had been amazing to follow in his footsteps.

Robbie and Jan

The event drew in garden fans from far and wide, with many locals joining attendees who had come from further afield.

Despite the overcast weather, the Rowdey Cow's ice cream stand also proved popular.

Ticket sales raised money for nursing and health charities supported by the National Garden Scheme, and a refreshment stand raised cash for local village charities. nursing and health charities.