Blooming great time at Haddenham

Turn End House in Haddenham is considered one of the major creations of architect Peter Aldington OBE. The house is one of a cluster of three, all listed at Grade 2*, designed and built by Peter and his wife Margaret between 1964 - 67.

The garden was created by Peter as a natural extension to the house and it has become a source of inspiration for landscape designers and horticulturists, as well as amateur gardeners.

As an ensemble, the house and garden are widely regarded as a prime example of the blend between architectural and landscape design. Turn End Trust was established in 1998 to promote the integration of building and garden design and to enable public access to the property.

The Trust’s events programme for this year launches on Saturday (March 25) with a seasonal walk and talk by Turn End’s gardener Jackie Hunt (pictured). She will explain the winter and springtime jobs required in preparing the garden for the growing season.

Other highlights include a day for artists and makers to join Turn End’s artist in residence Heather Hunter on Saturday May 6. Visitors will help to create a spring journal from an old book. The one day workshop will take place in the Methodist Hall in the village but will combine Turn End garden for inspiration.

Turn End Trust is holding two House and Garden Open Days this year, on Sunday May 7 and on Bank Holiday Monday August 28. Visitors will be able to step inside Turn End and perceive the design and layout of the house as well as meet Peter and Margaret Aldington. And the enchanting series of walled gardens will be open to explore.

In June (17/18) visitors will be able to enjoy an Open Garden Weekend at Turn End and visit the studios of Heather Hunter and Paul Wilkinson (which are within the Turn End estate), during the Bucks Open Studio weekend.

The studios will also be open for Bucks Open Studios from Monday June 19 - Sunday June 25.

Also in June is a Midsummer Night’s Tour with Jackie Hunt on Wednesday June 21, the summer solstice.

Gardening enthusiasts will be able to discover how to propagate plants by taking cuttings in a friendly and practical introductory Propagation Techniques workshop on Tuesday August 15 led by Jackie Hunt, who will be joined by garden advisor Lindsay Engers.

Booking is required for most events.

For further details of these events and more and to book online go to www.turnend.wordpress.com.

Alternatively, email [email protected]