One doesn’t always have to travel far to see the World (or at least parts of it). Just over the county border from us is the the county of Staffordshire. Nestling in a quiet valley above Stoke on Trent is the Estate of Biddulph Grange. One time it was the centre of a large farm, the house then called simply the Grange. But in 1842 James Bateman moved into the Grange with his Wife Maria. Bateman was an avid plant collector and travelled widely to seek his discoveries. Over the next 30 years Bateman and his wife created a series of garden that reflected Batemans travels and place representing the dramatic location for many of the plants he had collected.
One autumn, a few years ago we revisited, to what is now known as Biddulph Grange Gardens.
As I mentioned not that far away, but the visit took us to China, Italy, Egypt as well as more ‘local’ excursions to Cheshire and to Scottish Glens, plus the occasional glimpse of a English garden…. all in this one Grade 1 Listed Garden…. so let me share just a few appetisers from that Autumn visit
Biddulph Grange House stands above all. Looks rather grand, indeed it fits the location well. But it has had its own story to tell. After the Batemans occupancy it was bought, in 1872 by the Heath Family who remained there till 1922. During that time there was a major fire and much of the Grange was destroyed… so what you see as the Grange today is a rebuild, but is not quite like the original, but still graces the gardens very well. In 1922 the Grange became a Hospital, eventually an Orthopaedic Children’s Hospital. This period of its life came to an end in 1991.
After various Conservation Campaigns the House and Gardens were saved. What you can enjoy today is the result of much hard work by The National Trust and volunteers, in whose care it now resides.
At home or travelling…. as always….
Please Remember ….
Stay Safe …. Be Kind…. Look After Each Other
22nd February
(C) David Oakes 2024
DAVID OAKES - IMAGES. 