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A view of the the house from the front east. May 2006
The Old Croft is a 4 1/2 acre parkland garden situated in the National Trust Holmwood Common just south of Dorking. When it was acquired in 1978 by the present owners Virginia and David Lardner-Burke, the garden consisted of paddocks and impenetrable habitat of Birch and Alder searching for the light and enmeshed with brambles and huge 6ft high Petasites.
In 1986, Virginia embarked on creating the garden. The first development was to use the stream running through the property to create the most beautiful lake. Planting then began of over 700 trees and shrubs to create as natural environment as possible. Over the years imaginative features have been added to harmonize with the peaceful tranquility of the garden, these include a curved rose pergola, rose garden, wild flower areas, a walk way over a wild pond, bog gardens, an ‘Angel woodland’, a herb garden with unusual sun dial and an intriguing bamboo maze
'5-acre paradise garden' (Surrey Life) encompasses many gardens of exquisite natural beauty. Stunning and imaginative vistas; many unusual specimen trees and shrubs, lake, colourful bog gardens, woodland, roses, tropical bamboo maze. 'Through wisteria-clad pergola experience the first magnificent view of curving lawns bordered by flowering cherries underplanted with herbaceous perennials' (Surrey Life). Glorious colour in all seasons. Take time to explore this serene garden's enchanting ambience. Visitors return again and again'
(Description in Yellow Book)This is a garden to explore slowly, discovering it’s peace and serenity as it reveals the beauty of God's amazing creation. It should help to restore your soul.