Autumn unfolds at Ramster Garden

Karen Neville

Ramster

Whether you are looking for foresting bathing or a seasonal walk visit Ramster Garden. Rosie Glaister from Ramster Hall, shares her top five things not to miss that capture the dazzling beauty of autumn colour

With over 1,500 catalogued trees and shrubs in the garden, there is plenty to see as you wander down leaf covered woodland paths that meander past established shrubs, mature plants, and peaceful views.

Avenue of Acers

Our ancient avenue of acers must be the most photographed spot in the garden during autumn. The 120-year-old gnarly twisted trunks and branches create dramatic shapes covered with fiery red and orange leaves.

Liquidambar

This is one of the best trees for autumn colour. It has large maple shapes leaves which transform from crimson colours red, to purple then gold. It is one of my favourite trees within the garden because of its amazing spectrum of colours.

Handkerchief or Dove Tree

During the spring you will see flower-like bracts that flutter gently in the breeze that resemble doves or handkerchiefs. During autumn, the leaves turn a stunning golden yellow to orange.

Cornus

We have an excellent collection of flowering Dogwoods, but perhaps our best is Cornus ‘Normal Hadden’, fantastic for its stunning autumn colour and peculiar red fruits that appear to float on the ends of branches.

Nuts and berries!

There is something so magical seeing all the autumn berries dress the garden with natural decoration. The woodland floor is also a feast of colour and texture from fallen leaves and shiny conkers from our towering horse chestnut tree. Toadstools and fungi complete the enchanting woodland scene – if only we had fairies!

Visiting our garden

Ramster Garden is open 10am-5pm on Thursday, Friday, and weekends until 12th November. We have twenty-five acres of peaceful woodland garden for you to explore and a Tea House which serves homemade soup, quiches, sandwiches, and cakes. You can also enjoy a range of drinks including our own blend of coffee. Parking is free and we welcome dogs (on short leads). No need to pre-book, just come along and enjoy a wonderful walk.

Celebrate Christmas at Ramster

Karen Neville

Ramster

Christmas trees, a market and children’s theatre can all be enjoyed at Ramster Hall and Gardens this season.

Set in 25 acres of stunning woodland, hills and lakes, Ramster Garden in Chiddingfold is known for its spring colour but with winter on our doorstop the focus shifts.

Ramster is selling premium Christmas trees and beautiful festive wreaths from November 26th outside its Tea House. Festive treats including, mince pies and mulled wine will be available from the Tea House.

Choose from three different types of Christmas trees including Premium Nordmann Fir, Premium Fraser Fir and Norway spruce. Advice will be on hand to help you select your perfect tree.

Opening times: Mon-Thurs 11am-5pm, Fri 11am-7pm, weekends 10am-6pm. Free parking.

Explore a fantastic variety of stalls run by local artisans selling food, drink and gifts at Ramster Christmas market on December 3rd and 4th, 10am-4pm. Includes gin, fudge, art, jewellery, beauty and homewares. For an extra treat, Ramster is being joined by the Lammas Handbell Ringers on Saturday 3rd who will be playing Christmas carols in the morning. Free entry and parking.

Ramster Hall presents the Gingerbread Man: A real treat for children aged two to seven years as they join our hero on his adventurous journey in search of somewhere better. Some amusing characters are encountered on the way but not all are as friendly as they may appear. Finally, our champion learns that there is no place quite like home.

Performed inside Ramster Hall on Saturday 10th December (60 minutes)

Tickets: £9.50 per person (children under 2 free)

Family ticket 2 adults and 2 children £34.

Book tickets: [email protected]

For more information visit www.ramsterevents.com