Standing on the immaculate Italian Terraces at Tapeley Park , one might feel transported straight back to the 19th century. With its sweeping coastal views over the River Torridge and elegantly sculpted borders, this historic landscape is a testament to classical design and the lasting legacy of Lady Rosamund. But Tapeley Gardens offers more than just a beautiful history lesson; it is a vital, breathing blueprint for the future of gardening.
This is the power of the Permaculture Garden, one of the oldest and most thriving in the UK.
From Terraces to Tiers: A Commitment to Ecology
The vision of our current custodian, Hector Christie, was to integrate the principles of Permanent Agriculture (Permaculture) into the estate. Unlike the structured, labor-intensive Italian gardens, the Permaculture Garden is a testament to working with nature, not against it.
Here, you will find no neat rows of single crops. Instead, the garden is a diverse, layered ecosystem that mimics a natural forest. Edible plants, companion flowers, and beneficial shrubs grow together in harmony, creating a system that is naturally self-sustaining, resilient to pests, and requires minimal inputs of water or effort.
Look closely, and you’ll discover fascinating edible and unusual plants, such as Siberian Kiwis, domesticated Sea Buckthorn, and even Szechuan peppers, all thriving in a highly biodiverse environment. This method ensures soil health, maximizes yields, and provides a continuous feast for local pollinators and beneficial insects.
Beyond the Garden Gate: A Sustainable Ethos
The dedication to sustainability extends far beyond the Permaculture Garden itself. Tapeley Park operates with a deep-seated commitment to ecological responsibility:
- Organic & Pesticide-Free: The entire estate, including the historic walled kitchen garden, is managed organically and is completely pesticide-free, ensuring that the environment is safe for wildlife and visitors alike.
- Estate-to-Table Dining: Our Tea Rooms (The Orangery) serve delicious, seasonal fare sourced directly from our own bountiful walled vegetable garden and organic estate produce.
- Educational Living Examples: Visitors can also view our straw bale house, which showcases innovative, eco-friendly building techniques that align with our sustainability mission.
Tapeley Park is a place where you can relax, explore beautiful gardens, and also see a practical demonstration of how a rich history can evolve into a responsible, sustainable future.
We invite you to step through the gates and experience this remarkable duality for yourself. Spend the morning wandering through the tranquil Old Woodland, enjoy lunch with organic produce grown just steps away, and then immerse yourself in the buzzing, beautiful complexity of our Permaculture Garden. It is a visit that is both deeply relaxing and profoundly inspiring.