Thoughtful Thursday….. Climate, but also a Rose Treat

Hopton Hall Rose Gardens, Derbyshire

The annual visit to Hopton Roses Gardens.  Been visiting every year for about 15.  Every year its the same but at the same time always different.

This year the season have not run to the master plan.  Winter and very early spring was record wet.  But then spring turned sunny and unusually hot…. a summer that has brought us 3 heatwaves and no sign of rain.

Hopton Hall Gardens are a private garden. only open for 4 days, in 4 weeks in February for Snowdrops and 4 weeks in July for the Roses.  July the Roses are usually at their prime…. but the drought and heat it would appear that the best blooms were late June.  So this year my visit coincided in the gap before the next flush.  As I said, the same but different, there is a bonus at Hopton  in that the Gardens are defined by some well cared for topiary.

The Roses were perhaps not enjoying the blistering heat and scorching and searching sun… something that I shared, not ideal light for photography.. bright highlights and very dark shadows.

Next visit to Hopton… February and Snowdrops 🙂

As always….

Please Remember ….
Stay Safe …. Be Kind…. Look After Each Other

17th July
(C) David Oakes 2025