Paxton House

Paxton House, Berwick upon Tweed TD15 1SZ

Occupying a scenic location within the heart of the Berwickshire countryside and overlooking the majestic River Tweed, Paxton House is a neo-Palladian Georgian mansion (1765), famed world-over for some 80-acres of picturesque woodland, gardens and parklands.

The house’s gardens were originally designed in the mid-18th century by Robert Robinson and have since developed an enviable reputation as one of the most artistic and well thought out horticultural sites in the country. Robert Robinson described himself, in 1760, as a late draughtsman and executor of the Designs of Lancelot Brown Esq. His plan included a menagerie, a rotunda, a monumental obelisk, a bridge of the glen and a gravel path ornamentally planted with flowering shrubs along the top of the banks of the Tweed.

As well as being architecturally outstanding, there exist some well-preserved 18th and 19th century estate structures in the grounds, as well as more modern features. The Edwardian-style herbaceous border, extensive woodland and Tweed river walk are highly praised by visitors to the grounds and are well maintained by a dedicated team of gardeners. The well garden, another beautiful feature, demonstrates a beautiful display of candelabra primulas in spring.

Lined with a charming array of daffodils that are now considered synonymous with Paxton House, visitors can enjoy fantastic riverside and woodland walks, including interactive family trails which feature stunning floral displays and the occasional appearance from native wildlife. The woodland trail, which runs throughout the summer months, is a visitor favourite and encourages participants to put their navigational skills to the test.

With thousands of flowers blooming nearly every month between spring and autumn, this ever-changing garden continues to produce awe-inspiring arrangements including displays of rhododendrons, native thistles and one of the garden’s most popular attractions; the lavender border, which is in full bloom in August.

Website: www.paxtonhouse.com

Telephone: 01289 386291

Opening times: 10am to 5pm

Admission costs: £5 for grounds £10 for House and Grounds

Garden of the Week is in association with Discover Scottish Gardens. For more information, advice and day-out ideas, visit discoverscottishgardens.org