In our fascinating History of the British Gardening Series, you can learn about the importance of the Domesday book and religion, discover more about the first plant hunters, and the rise of the English landscape movement till the modern day.
The original content was published on the BBC Gardening website, however, the Design section with all of its content has been removed. We try to keep this great content alive here on the Gardenlife Pro site.
Roman Gardens in Britain
The Romans were the first to start growing plants for ornamental purposes and not just to eat. Discover more about the impact the Romans had on gardening in Britain in this article.
Medieval British Gardening
Sadly, no existing middle ages gardens have survived in their entirety in Europe, and historical documentation on medieval gardens and plants is scarce. Much of what we know is from paintings. Courtyard gardens were occasionally incorporated into medieval castles.
Tudor Flower Garden and Stewart British Garden
Tudor and Stewart British Gardens: Embracing Renaissance Revival with Knot Gardens
In the 15th century, the Renaissance movement influenced British gardening, giving rise to the enchanting Tudor and Stewart gardens. Among their captivating features were the meticulously designed knot gardens, reflecting symmetry and intricate patterns. These gardens symbolized unity and eternity while showcasing the era’s artistic finesse.
Restoration of British Gardening
As Charles II was restored to the throne, it was out with the old Tudor style and in with a more flamboyant and elaborate French influence, such as ornamental canals and avenues.
Georgian and Regency British Gardening
Gardening was coming into its own. With it came the birth of the English Landscape movement and the lawnmower. This period also produced the inspiring Capability Brown who came to prominence in the second half of the 18th century.
Victorian Gardens Styles in Brittain
The Victorian period was celebrated for its progress, invention, new ideas and discoveries from giant glasshouses to garden tools.
Edwardian Era of British Gardening
Edwardians craved a rural idyll to capture the romance of the countryside within the confines of the ever-expanding urban and suburban landscape. It was a period of prosperity and this was reflected in the exuberant gardening styles.
Modern British Gardening
Modern British garden represents a vibrant fusion of tradition and innovation, paying homage to the country’s rich horticultural heritage while embracing contemporary garden design principles. Among the diverse gardening styles that have endured the test of time, the cherished “cottage garden” stands out as an emblematic and beloved approach that continues to captivate garden enthusiasts today.
