The pond and Myddelton House
The pond and Myddelton House
Myddleton House in Enfield, lies on Bulls Cross, EN2, and at the eastern end of Turkey Street, a short distance from the A10 Great Cambridge Road.
It is a small 2 hectare garden. It will be a valuable and interesting visit for anyone interested in plants, or in the history of gardening in Britain.Myddelton House, with its 2 hectare garden was the home of the noted plantsman, E. A. Bowles, who died in 1954. His name will be familiar to most keen gardeners, as it is commemorated in the names of many of the plants he raised. Some of the restoration and maintenance of the grounds is carried out by the 'E. A. Bowles of Myddelton House Society'.
The gardens have a large collection of uncommon and unusual plants, some still reflecting the original owner's interests. Most of the plants, especially the unusual ones, are labelled. The plant collection includes the 'lunatic asylum', plants that are inherently strange, misshapen, or are otherwise seen as curiosities. Many of these are mature and of sizes that it is difficult to find anywhere else. It is a garden that will be of great interest to anyone with a particular interest in plants, particularly the unusual ones.The gardens also house an NCCPG collection of bearded Irises.
Myddelton House Gardens have a number of monuments and structures, such as the artificial river (of gravel), with bridges crossing it. There are a number of distinct garden plots and 'rooms', as well as some wilder areas.E. A. Bowles' old house has since 1984 been the headquarters of the Lea Valley Regional Park Authority. The house is not open to the public. However, there is a small conservatory by it that is open.
The house had been in the Bowles family for generations, and some of the older trees were planted by his ancestors. He lived at the house for most of his adult life. He developed a collection of rarities and unusual plants there.A small number of plants are offered for sale.
There is a charge to visit the grounds. Opening times are restricted, to the working week and some Sundays. It is advisable to check before travelling. The house serves as working offices for the Lea Valley Parks.The grounds are managed by the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority. Telephone 01992 702200.