Newstead Abbey gardens

Newstead Abbey, near Mansfield (Nottinghamshire), was founded by King Henry II as an Augustinian priory in the 12^th century and became a domestic property after the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16^th century. It is probably best known today as the former home of the poet Lord Byron. It is now owned by Nottingham City Council and is open to the public at restricted times throughout the year.

The gardens are worth visiting in their own right, and are actually more accessible than the house, being open on more days and for longer times. 

The formal gardens occupy 25 acres of the 300 acre estate, and are approached by way of a long drive that sweeps through rhododendrons (planted in the 19^th century) and an area of open heathland.

There are sixteen distinct areas within the gardens. Notable among these is the Japanese Garden that was commissioned by Ethel Webb, whose family owned Newstead Abbey during the early 20^th century. This garden features stepping stones and hump-backed bridges that cross streams bordered by rhododendrons, azaleas and bamboo.

The former kitchen garden is now home to vast numbers of roses, the varieties being both modern and traditional, with climbers and ramblers adorning the brick walls.

There is a fine rock garden beyond the great Yew Walk, and a dark tunnel leads to the Eagle Pond, which is one of the original “stew ponds” in which the monks stored fish before they became part of the menu. 

Nearby is the famous memorial to Lord Byron’s dog Boatswain, who was commended for possessing: “Beauty without Vanity, Strength without Insolence, Courage without Ferocity, and all the virtues of Man without his Vices”. The monument is larger than that to Byron himself.

Newstead Abbey Gardens should not be missed if you are in the area!

© John Welford