Exciting Times

 

 





The entrance to the plant fair.

We had a record turnout for the first of our bi-annual Plant Fairs   on    Sunday 10th May.  The sun stayed out all day and everyone had a fantastic time. Visitors were in great company; the eagle-eyed amongst them may have spotted Rob from the BBC2s Big Allotment Challenge stocking up on plants.  He live-tweeted from the event, so check out his twitter feed for some extra behind-the-scenes pictures.

 

Remember to mark the next Plant Fair - held on 9th August -  on your calendar!



Alexandra Hayward, David Kesteven and the
gardeners are presented with the plaque.

The Plant Fair isn't the only excitement we've had this May; on Tuesday 5th May we were presented with the HHA Garden of the Year award.  The presentation took place on the patio, looking out onto the stunning gardens and was followed with a private tour of the award winning gardens with Head Gardener, David Kesteven.  

 

Renishaw's own Sparkling Wine was flowing (unfortunately, not for staff) and there was a buzz of excitement in the air as the guests enjoyed a lavish celebratory lunch.  Thank you to everyone at HHA and Christies for helping to make it such a memorable day and of course to all the visitors who help to make Renishaw what it is.

 

The award is now displayed in the entrance to the stable courtyard, outside the Sitwell Museum, so that it can be enjoyed by all visitors to Renishaw. 

 

There is still plenty to look forward to here at Renishaw over the coming months, including the Lord Conyers Morris Men in and around the garden next Sunday 24th May in time for the Bank Holiday weekend.

 



 Photo credits:  Angela Schorah

 

 

Busy, busy, busy!

Everything has been a bit of a blur over the last few weeks as we busily prepare for a hectic and exciting few weeks.  On Tuesday we will be presented with the HHA/Christies Garden of the Year award!  We think the award is more than deserved and we can't wait to display the plaque in the gardens.  On Tuesday we will also open for the National Garden Scheme - normal admission fees apply, but all monies collected will be donated to the NGS who divide money raised between nursing and caring charities.


The selection of goods on sale in the Visitor Centre.

The Visitor Centre is undergoing something of a makeover as we expand our stock list.  We now stock Bluebells ice cream.  We have a range of tubs which are perfect as the weather warms up. Make sure you stop by the Visitor Centre  (if the staff don't eat them all first!).  Also, due to popular demand, we have expanded the range of Artisan Biscuits we offer to include snack-size packs.  To wash them down with, we also have a selection of soft drinks and bottled water.



Hot off the press: the new Guide Book!

As exciting as all of this is, the pièce de résistance is the brand new Renishaw Hall guidebook.  It looks absolutely magnificent and is now on sale after a long journey to production.  With a fascinating overview of the history of the Sitwell family and the house and gardens accompanied by wonderful photographs from the house and gardens, it makes a perfect memento of your visit whether you're a one-time tourist or a seasoned regular visitor. Don't forget to buy yours in the Visitor Centre.

Coming up next weekend on Sunday 10th May, is the first of this year's Specialist Plant Fairs which is always a busy, popular time.  Last year, despite torrential downpours, visitors flocked to buy the specialist and rare plants on offer. We've got everything crossed for a better forecast this time! Entry is £2 or free with normal garden admission.



Just a fraction of the bluebells here at Renishaw.

The bluebells are also out in force, and according to several visitors, the best ever!  Head down to our woodland area and lakes and allow your senses to be overcome with the wonderful aroma and the stunning sight of bluebells stretching as far as you can see.  We anticipate them being at their best for the next week or so, so don't miss out!