Exbury Gardens’ Azalea Bowl, a firm favourite of mine, is marking its 60th anniversary with the best ever flowering display, thanks to all the high rainfall we’ve had- and no harsh, late spring frosts. So far….
Planted in 1964 by former head gardener Freddie Wynniatt, under the guidance of then owner Edmund de Rothschild, it surrounds a large pond in the Gardens. It has witnessed numerous marriage proposals and its peak flowering season is between April and May. This bank holiday weekend would be a perfect time to visit.
The Gardens’ team are running special azalea-themed guided tours and visitors are being encouraged to share their photographs taken in the Azalea Bowl over the years on social media, tagging #exburyazaleabowl.
Head gardener Tom Clarke said: “The Azalea Bowl is such a magical place and when it’s in full bloom, it’s almost other-worldly. Very fitting that on its 60th anniversary, the plants are looking magnificent as we’ve had so much rain recently, with no late frosts. Our garden team and visitors are really enjoying the spectacle of it.”
During the rest of the year, the Azalea Bowl becomes a peaceful space in dappled shade where visitors can pause and reflect, and admire the tranquil beauty of the surrounding woodland landscape.
Seasonal spotlight tours, focusing on rhododendrons and azaleas, by the Gardens team will take place on 11 May. Tickets are priced £5 (£3 for Friends of Exbury) and can be booked via the Exbury Gardens website.
Thank you for reading my blog. I loved my last visit to Exbury and am pleased to share my photos again which bring back such happy memories. Have a fabulous Bank Holiday weekend everyone!
Bramble Garden 