Gardens

Fine old trees line the driveway, as it swings round to the front door of Tofte Manor. A Cedar of Lebanon, said to be the tree of the Gods, towers over the main lawn. This and many other grand trees form the glorious backdrop to this beautiful five acre garden with the central jewel being the lovely 17th century Bedfordshire manor house.

The garden is set out on different levels. A sunken garden with a central rose arbour, flanked by an herbaceous border and an upper level with box edged herbaceous borders. The garden is colour themed to follow the progression of the rainbow colours giving an image of harmony and balance.

The garden has been designed to create calm whilst energising the soul, with extensive colour themed herbaceous borders, a sunken area with central rose arbour, stunning box hedging and topiary, unusual statues, a hidden parterre crystal garden and lion which guards the manor. In spring hundreds of daffodils are followed by woodland blue bells and tulips. There are many hidden walks and areas of great beauty to explore where you can find secret huts, statues and fountains or seats and swings suspended from trees.

In the sunken area, the rose arbour is covered with beautifully scented climbers. Beneath the arbour sits a statue surrounded by box hedging filled with summer planting and yellow roses. Behind high yew hedges, a secret parterre garden of box hedging surrounds a beautiful statue, and in front of an old espaliered pear tree sits a water feature, like a glowing crystal ball.

The house wall with its beautiful planting in front of it, is the connecting tissue between the two levels, the colours changing from the rich reds and yellows to a soft palate. A Clematis runs through a white wisteria and cascading roses. In the wilder areas, the banks along the drives are covered with snowdrops in late winter, followed by daffodils, bluebells and wild garlic.

In your wandering you will also discover a swimming pool and tennis court. Around the garden are carefully placed beautiful crystals which anchor the energy of the ten pointed star which is part of the Tofte symbol.

A unique labyrinth incorporating all the elements - earth, air, fire and water - into its design was inspired by the one at Chartres Cathedral. It is laid out in a quiet spot as a tool for inner contemplation and balance.

This is a garden that will remind you of your conection with the earth and will bring a sense of peace delighting all your senses - heart, mind, body and soul. Truly a garden for all seasons.