Nestled in a tranquil valley situated near Bath, Iford Manor offers a captivating escape into a world where history and beauty intertwine. As a photographer, I’m always on the lookout for places in and around Bath that capture the essence of the seasons – Spring, in this case. My recent visit on a beautiful sunny spring morning revealed the magic of this Grade I listed garden, a true hidden gem.
A Journey Through Time
Iford Manor’s history stretches back centuries, with origins as early as the late fifteenth or early sixteenth century. It has evolved through the hands of various families, each leaving their mark on the estate. Originally a wool factory and the seat of the Horton family, it later passed to the Gaisford family, who created pleasure grounds and planted the now-famous wisteria. However, it was Harold Peto, who purchased the property in 1899, who truly transformed the gardens into the Italianate masterpiece we see today.
In 1965 The estate was sold to Elizabeth Cartwright. The stewardship of Iford Manor now rests with William and Marianne Cartwright-Hignett. They are deeply committed to preserving and enhancing the legacy of Harold Peto, evident in their ongoing efforts to maintain the Grade I listed gardens to an exceptional standard.
Their dedicated team ensures that the unique character and historical significance of Iford Manor’s gardens continue to flourish, offering visitors a captivating experience that evolves with each passing season.
Harold Peto’s Vision
Peto, a renowned architect and garden designer, drew inspiration from his travels and a passion for antiquity. He incorporated Romanesque objects and architectural fragments, creating a unique and romantic hillside landscape. The gardens feature terraces, statues, columns, and winding paths, offering a sense of discovery at every turn.
A Garden of Delights
Today, Iford Manor’s gardens are a blend of influences, including Italian, Ancient Roman, and Byzantine influences. As you wander through the garden, you’ll encounter:
Ancient statues and architectural gems: Collected by Peto and carefully placed throughout the garden.
The Cloisters: An Italianate courtyard, described by Peto as his “Haunt of Ancient Peace.”
The Great Terrace: Offering magnificent views across the valley.
The Japanese Garden: A tranquil and serene space.
As well as the above I encountered many areas to explore and soak up the atmosphere. Exploring the rear of the garden, which opens up into a wooded area, I found the ground completely covered in Wild Garlic offering some impressive views across the land. Walking further along you can drop back down into the main areas of interest with the garden, or follow the pathway along to take in some impressive views of the distant landscape.
Plan Your Visit
Iford Manor offers a tranquil escape easily accessible from Bath and the surrounding areas. The gardens are typically open to the public from April to September, on specific days of the week and for pre-booked tours. It’s always best to check the Iford Manor Estate website for the most up-to-date opening times, ticket prices, and any special event information. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season as it can get really busy.
Getting to Iford Manor
By Car: Iford Manor is located approximately 6 miles south of Bath. There is limited parking available on-site, so arriving early is advisable, especially on busy days.
By Public Transport: While there isn’t a direct bus route to the entrance of Iford Manor, you can take a train or bus from Bath to Bradford-on-Avon. From Bradford-on-Avon, it’s a scenic walk of approximately 1.5 miles (around 30 minutes) along country lanes to reach Iford Manor. Alternatively, local taxi services are available in Bradford-on-Avon for a quicker transfer to the manor. Be sure to check train and bus schedules in advance.
By Bicycle: For those who enjoy cycling, the route from Bath to Iford Manor offers a pleasant ride through picturesque countryside. There are various cycle paths and quiet lanes you can follow. Bike storage is usually available at Iford Manor car park.
Whether you choose to drive, take public transport, or cycle, the journey to Iford Manor is part of the experience, leading you through the beautiful Somerset landscape to this horticultural haven. If you are looking for more places and things to do in Bath check out Make the Most of Bath: Top 10 Things to Do or find more articles over on the blog.
