Area of the Month – April

Rock Garden

The Rock Garden is a magical place in April, so much so we recommend everyone visits now!

The magnificent white and pink Magnolias are in full bloom and are under-planted with tulips, Primula and many other alpine plants. It truly is a celebration of spring.

The Hugh Nettlefold Alpine Garden was built in 1894-5 by Messrs Backhouse and Son of York; one of two most prominent firms of the period specialising in this work. It is half an acre in size and consists of 250 tonnes of millstone grit from Yorkshire at a cost of £650. This was transported by narrowboat or train for the most part and put in place using horses, men and pulleys! It is named in commemoration of Hugh Nettlefold’s service to BBG’s society.

Rock Garden