Looking back on these images has me thinking “how lucky was I?!” Early last May, I was in the Cotswolds happy beyond words to be experiencing such gardens as Hidcote that had been on my “faves list” for so many years.

Especially now mid-February, when my memories give credence to the fact that spring indeed is on the horizon…and hopefully, even earlier than last year if that sage groundhog is correct. How thrilled I am to have these images to reflect upon and even more thrilled that I will be returning to English gardens in late May. Perfect timing, as these images will attest. And on my visit to Hidcote, I also picked up some architectural details as inspiration (the fascianting gate and divine folly or potting shed)!

Enjoy les fleurs and my soliloquies on the magic of Hidcote in the spring.

Tulips were obviously the stars, gracing portions of almost every garden “room” for which Hidcote is best known.

Lilacs graced a circular “room” (a wonderful foil to the majestic Cedar of Lebanon in the background).

Soft green new growth lighting up a corner…

And the ages-old bird topiaries immaculately pruned in yew.

Even the clematis have a well-considered, painted metal tuteur.

In a post last year, I focused on Hidcote’s vistas as another signature feature of this garden. I’m sharing the most dramatic vista again to pass along an observation about garden designer’s of this era, like Major Lawrence Johnston, who created Hidcote from 1907-1920. They took to heart a bit of wisdom that advised…”indicate the vastness of one’s land holdings by sending long, straight avenues through it, reaching to distant horizons.” (English Gardens, from the archives of Country Life magazine).

Spring shall be along shortly…