TheHistoryOf.net

Exbury Gardens offers visitors a magnificent 200-acre Rothschilds garden and a steam railway. This natural gem is lush, rich and luxuriant. Adults and families will simply love visiting the wondrously landscaped grounds that include rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and rare trees and shrubs and taking a ride on the steam railway that traverses the Rhododendron Line.

The Exbury Gardens, which includes Inchmery House and the grounds, has an interesting history that details one man’s love for and dedication to creating extraordinary gardens. Here is the story of what is a lovely and inspiring setting.

Exbury Gardens and Lionel de Rothschild

In 1912, Lionel de Rothschild purchased Inchmery House. At that time, he had planned to develop strikingly beautiful gardens across his estate. But Rothschild was unable to fulfill his wish and so in 1919 he bought the adjoining Exbury Estate. With that purchase, he started to create what would become world famous gardens.

Along with developing the gardens and estate, Rothschild was also responsible for creating what would become Exbury Village. The renowned Mitford family first owned the estate in the 19th century. They set about developing the land. From the 19th century through to the mid-20th century, the area saw fairly continuous development.

It was Rothschild who created a mix of architectural designs that included the village club, village shop and post office. The grounds and estate were responsible for employing many individuals, while those in the area that comprised the population of the town provided needed services.

Timeline

Here is a timeline that chronicles important and interesting events related to Exbury Estates.

• 1912 Lionel de Rothschild purchased Inchmery House
• 1919 He buys Exbury Estate
• 1922 Exbury House rebuilt and gardens started
• 1944 Exbury House is requisitioned as HMS Mastodon and used to train and forces who would invade Europe
• 1955 Exbury Gardens opens to the public
• 1976 Exbury Gardens loses 1/3rd of its plants to drought
• 1987 Exbury loses over 500 trees to a great windstorm
• 1992 Rebuilding of Exbury House completed
• 2001 Exbury Steam Railroad built and premiered
• 2002 Exbury Gardens wins Southern Tourist Board Large Attraction of the Year Award

Visiting Today

The fact that Exbury Gardens and its environs have been preserved for all to enjoy is an indication of the quality of its founder and the community in which it resides. The world-class gardens provide numerous lovely paths along which visitors may amble, ramble and pause.

The enchanting steam railway runs every day that the gardens are open. Enjoy unique views along this charming railway. Don’t forget to visit Mr. Eddy’s Restaurant and Tearooms, the Plant Centre and Exbury Gift Shop.

Although the estate is filled with visitors in the spring and summer, it still manages to preserve its peaceful and soothing personality. For those who are inspired by the setting and as a result desire nursery consulting and gardening services, see this link to this Wexford Nursery.

And if you want a true architectural treat and desire to enjoy the magnificent bounty of one man’s gardening vision be sure to visit Exbury Gardens. It is a magical place.

About the Author

John Joe Hyland owns and operates the nursery that was established by his grandparents, William and Elizabeth, more than 60 years ago. Specializing in quality hedging and trees, this Wexford Nursery, which is located on 20 acres, produces Laurel, Griselinia, Escallonia, Oleria, and Holly Evergreen Hedging, as well as, Beech, Hornbeam, Dogwood, and Willow Decideous Hedging. They also supply a range of Evergreen and Decideous Trees. John Joe, who is exceptionally passionate and knowledgeable about plants and trees, also offers professional consulting services for gardening.