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Upton Country Park Walled Garden Proposals

Future decisions will depend on past use, and it is important to record what exists within the walls of the garden. With this in mind sub-surface surveys were carried out in July & November 2006. The results provide clues to activities of the past, and give an idea of the position of old footpaths and of a glasshouse, and the size and position of the pond.

Inspiration for the layout of the Walled Garden has been drawn from historical trading links of the estates past owners and inhabitants. Connections with lands as diverse as South America, Africa, Australia, Newfoundland and the Mediterranean will be hinted at with the planting of fragrant herbs, olive trees, lemon trees and vines, all of which takes advantage of the shelter provided by the walls.

Other plans include paths, the reintroduction of a fountain, a greenhouse, and a shelter intended for outdoor music or theatre performances. A terrace will link the garden with the Peacock Tea Rooms.

The design below draws together a lot of ideas generated during the development of this project. It fulfils the aims of a contemporary design based on a traditional layout, and is unique to Upton House.

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The numbered elements shown on the diagram are described below it:

1. Walls & Gates - the walls have recently been repaired. The existing espalier fruit trees are an appropriate and attractive use for the walls and will be retained.
2. Footpaths - the historic footpath layout is reinstated. Broad paths suitable for wheelchair access and with plenty of seats.
3. Fountain - reinstatement of the circular pond/tank in its original position. A modern shimmering fountain will suggest sea trawling and surf.
4. Glasshouse - reinstatement of a traditional glasshouse in its historic position (although increased in size to suit operational need). This may be developed to provide teaching facilities space for Kingston Maurward as well as the propagation of plants for the garden.
5. Pavilions - the old corner pavilions can be used for exhibition space (e.g. garden tool exhibition), seating, stories, sculpture, etc.
6. Terrace - a new paved terrace outside the Peacock Tea Rooms and Heritage Centre for outdoor eating and entertainment.
7. Peacock Tea Rooms - the south eastern elevation of the Heritage Centre will be improved allowing a better link and providing light, attractive, all season views from the Tea Rooms. A small 'step outside balcony' will open up views from the Gallery on the first floor. The improved elevation will form an attractive focal point within the garden and punctuate the view along the principal axis.
8. The Walk - the main walk along the central axis. There is potential to enhance the view through the iron gate from the adjacent herbaceous border walk; the view would be framed with a pergola focusing along the central walk to the fountain and the Tea Rooms.
9. Garden Walks - a series of garden walks will be themed and relate to the lives of past residents and their links with Newfoundland, Africa, Australia and the Mediterranean. Walks will include food crops and herbs to reflect the walled garden's intended original use, and will be edged with grass.
10. Lawns - grassed areas that might be used as small scale event and recreational space. Planted with olive trees to reflect former trade links with the Mediterranean. 'Islands' of bedding plants reflect the growing interest in annuals and bedding schemes of the period and provide colour in the high season.
11. Shelter - the provision of an open fronted shelter would provide a lot of opportunities to increase the use of the Walled Garden. It might provide the venue for sculpture or art workshops or demonstrations, outdoor classroom space, covered display space, a stage for small music groups, or performance or as a covered outdoor work area.