The Old Mill

Set within a landscape rich in agricultural and architectural history, this garden is being designed to sit lightly alongside a sensitive refurbishment of the listed house and former mill buildings. The site has evolved over centuries, and the new garden will reflect this layered character—combining simplicity and structure near the house with a gradual softening into the wider landscape.

The front of the property, once more utilitarian in use, will be reconfigured to create a calm and unified entrance sequence between house and mill. Planting will echo the character of the existing buildings, offer privacy, and accommodate low-key use for the adjacent café, with seating designed to invite pause rather than permanence. A new rear access and parking area will use local natural materials and a strong evergreen backbone to maintain year-round structure.

Closer to the house, a series of connected spaces—including a paved entertaining area, productive kitchen garden, and a walled garden will form a generous but contained garden core. The river, long central to the identity of the site, becomes a key feature once more, with improved access and carefully framed views enhancing its presence.

Beyond, the meadow—still designated agricultural land—will remain largely open, but will be enriched over time with native trees, wildlife habitat and seasonal interest. Careful planting will also soften boundaries and improve privacy without compromising the expansive quality of the site.

The garden’s evolution will be gradual and considered, reflecting both the historic character of the site and the desire for a naturalistic, resilient landscape that supports both biodiversity and contemporary life.