The garden runs down the east side of the manor’s property, and will ultimately take up the north side as well, joining the two gardens. The garden has been designed to be in keeping with the historical nature of the manor. It was originally the kitchen garden for the manor, and the old steps leading down now take the visitor to a large round central bed, with other beds stretching away both north and south.

Sulgrave Manor is the ancestral home of George Washington and the Society therefore decided the main theme of the herb garden would be to reflect those herbs that were taken out to America by the Pilgrim Fathers, and also those herbs, like tobacco, that came back from America. Many of the herbs taken out were the ordinary herbs that we know of today. Those visiting the garden will be surprised to learn that a lot of plants considered not to be herbs, in fact are. There are many definitions of what constitutes a herb, but essentially it is a plant with medicinal, aromatic or culinary properties. Therefore herbs can range from roses, which not only have aromatic but aphrodisiac properties, to mint, which is used in cooking, as a digestive, and for many other purposes.

The garden is maturing and turning into a wonderful setting, with its many benches to sit and enjoy nature. The garden was officially opened in June 2003, and is a great attraction, both aesthetically and educationally.

Click here to take a tour of the Herb Society Garden at Sulgrave