The 60 acres of Parkland are visited by an abundance of wildlife.
The landscaped garden at Belcombe is registered by English Heritage as being of special historic interest. A blend of restored 18th century features and contemporary additions. Modern touches have been sympathetically introduced with carefully placed sculptures, an infinity swimming pool and terrace paved with the lightest golden stone set high above the walled garden with stunning views of the river valley.
Managed by the Belcombe team of talented horticulturists; the neo-classical, picturesque-style gardens and 60 acres of parkland surround the mellow jumble of cobbled and fern-filled courtyards and gothic archways. Original features of a grotto, a Doric rotunda and a ruined ‘temple’ can be found within these magical grounds.
The grounds are bound by the rhythms of nature.
The Rotunda
An ornamental, horseshoe shaped pond with Koi carp can been seen from the dining room and curves round a small hillock with a Grade II-listed classical Rotunda built for Francis Yerbury and made from limestone.
The Summer House
The Summer House is an eight sided pavilion set within a beautiful garden designed by Rupert Goldby in the late 20th century. A central path runs down the middle of the garden, lined by rows of seasonal flowers, leading to the door of the house which can be used to dine in especially over the summer months.
The Woodland
In the past two or three years, the woodland slopes above the garden have been opened up. This area, known as Daniel’s Grove, was added to the estate in 1785, probably by Francis Yerbury’s son, who made a picturesque woodland walk with caves, rustic arches and other surprises. Lost for years under a mass of brambly undergrowth, these features have only been uncovered recently.
The Pool House
Strategically built at the top of the hill, with stunning views over the entire estate sits the Mediterranean style Pool House at Belcombe. The large infinity pool is heated and surrounded by sun loungers. The slightly raised terrace has a large, thick oak table perfect for long leisurely lunches. A kitchen on one side and changing room with oversized shower on the other, it’s the perfect hang out for sunny days and special occasions.
The Walled Garden
Award-winning garden designer Arne Maynard created the walled kitchen garden. Just over an acre in size it’s laid out on a steep slope with wide grassy terraces, and prairie-style planting in borders that run up either side. Box edged beds at the bottom are used for cutting seasonal flowers. Smart glasshouses have been built for raising seeds, tender plants and a provide a home to the resident tortoise Sid.
The Barn
A beautifully converted church barn sits at the top of the drive. There’s a touch of rustic chic about the barn, where most of the celebrations take place. Bright flowers really bring the room to life and in the evening it can bit lit by hundreds of candles. The old wooden church doors open up flooding the inside with natural light. With stone floors and vaulted ceilings its the perfect space for a wedding reception, ceremony or party.
The Cottage Orne
Cottage Orne dates back to a movement of 18th century ‘rustic’ stylised cottages during the romantic movement. It’s a dream cottage with a kitchen, sitting room, open log fire, bedroom and roll top bath with a separate toilet.
The Brook, Grotto and Shell House
A flock of Hebridean sheep graze by a small stream called the Belcombe Brook which descends through the woodland and cascades over the grotto into the pond. The room inside the grotto overlooks the pond and has seats against the wall. North of the grotto, a path runs through shrubbery and passes through a small, oriental garden building, which has been transformed into a Shell House by Blott Kerr-Wilson. The interior walls and floor have been decorated with hundreds of shells and pebbles.
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