After an often slow and sleepy start to the season, May and June is a time of wild abundance in the garden, as though the blooms and birds have awoken with a start.
From soft, blowsy blossom and gently entwined birdsong to bursts of new colour and the vital,
vibrant scent of new grass, each sense is nudged into wakefulness from the second you step out
of doors.
And at our country estate, the season is very much in full bloom. Set in the heart of
Northumberland and with 300 acres of heritage parkland at our doorstep; from formal gardens to
gentle woodland and native wildlife - there’s so much to see and enjoy here.
Just now, the rosemary, viburnum, ceanothus and laburnum are in flower, bringing drifts of scent
and soft colour to the landscape as the wisteria prepares for its annual spectacular show of
colour.
And never ones to rest on their laurels, our hardworking Gardening Team have even more in store
for the grounds and gardens. From beehives and woodland walks to an estate orchard, read on as
our Head Gardener, Michael shares some of the exciting developments taking root here at Matfen
Hall.
A Hive Of Activity
In May, the first two beehives were installed on the estate, painted in the Matfen Hall colours of
navy and gold to offer a setting fit for a queen. Working with a local beekeeper, the Gardening
Team set up the hives at the edge of quiet woodland - offering the bees a peaceful yet abundant
space to establish their hive.
By the end of the summer there will be four beehives in the grounds, providing locally sourced
estate honey for guests to enjoy during their stay.
Settled on the edge of our grounds, the bees will be able to feast on the flora or our estate and
the fields and meadows that surround us.
Lavender, verbena and sedum will pair with Northumbrian wildflowers to create a honey radiant
with the sweetness of summer, the perfect addition to cocktails, desserts and of course, perfectly
toasted crumpets at the breakfast table.
“Believe it or not, beehives take on their own unique and distinct character and
our bees at Matfen are quite friendly and calm.” Michael, Head Gardener
A Full Harvest
In another corner of our 300-acre grounds, something special is taking root. 15 new fruit trees
have been planted, the beginning of a heritage orchard and an opportunity to bring the fresh
produce from estate to plate.
The orchard currently features five apple trees, five plum trees and five cherry trees, each bringing
a new flavour to the table; from the crisp, rosy flavour of Discovery apples and the dusky
sweetness of Opal plums to tart Morello cherries.
Alongside strawberries and canes of raspberries and currants, they’re expected to yield fruit next
year, a kitchen garden to create jams, preserves and an opportunity for our Kitchen Team to
explore and experiment with new, seasonal flavour combinations.
For guests, the orchard will be a peaceful place - with benches, climbing roses and hanging
strawberry baskets. A summer haven and the perfect spot to simply sit and watch the world go
by.
“As well as the fresh produce, the trees will bring a majestic show of colour and
blossom every spring.” Michael, Head Gardener
A Serene Space
Shady, cool and sheltered - there’s something particularly serene about woodland in summer.
And a new woodland walking trail invites guests to enjoy a quiet stroll during their stay. Simply
step from the gardens and into the hush of the woodland to walk from the hotel and up towards
our adjoining golf driving range.
Avenues of birch, Scots pine and larch accompany you on your way, towering above and bringing
a sense of tranquility and escape. Home to roe deer in the winter, the woodland walk rewards you
walkers with beautiful views all year round. Simply turn your head to see a stunning view of our
Grade II listed hall peeking through the trees.
Want to experience summer in the garden? Stay 3 nights for the price of 2 to enjoy all the time in
the world to stroll and explore every corner. A QR code trail leads the way, offering information on
the plants on show as well as the history of the estate.