Monty Don lists 'impressive' garden in Northern Ireland among best in UK
Monty Don has identified a Northern Irish garden as among the finest in the United Kingdom. The 70-year-old possesses a lifelong devotion to horticulture and has journeyed globally examining some of the most exceptional spaces.However, the Gardeners' World presenter acknowledges he hasn't provided "the same attention to the gardens on my doorstep". He reveals many of his visits to gardens throughout the UK have been a "one-off" and arrive without a "narrative or plan".This led Monty to contemplate which gardens rank as the UK's finest. After reflecting on the matter, he identified Mount Stewart in Newtownards as amongst the premier locations.Writing in BBC Gardener's World Magazine, he stated: "The Italian Garden remains the most impressive and famous set piece. You go down broad steps to what had been sloping lawns, but which 20 ex-servicemen levelled to make a large parterre."It is in two halves, each mirroring the other in layout but not planting, and between the two is a round lily pond. Standing with your back to the house, facing south with the great sweep of steps behind you, the plants on the right-hand side, facing east are reds and pinks, with mauve and silver, inspired by the rising sun.""Those on the left, facing west, reflect the colours of the setting sun, with purples, burgundies and oranges."The residence at Mount Stewart has traditionally been regarded as a 'home' for the Londonderry family. Transferred across generations, it has consistently maintained its connection to its heritage. It has produced a residence that continues to resemble a family dwelling today, the National Trust notes. The grounds, frequently regarded as amongst the world's most exceptional, are characterised as an "arts and crafts-like garden".They represent a personal endeavour by Edith Helen Vane-Tempest-Stewart, the Marchioness of Londonderry. Her contributions from the early 20th century enhanced the grounds that had been developed during the earlier 18th and 19th century periods.The Stewart family obtained the estate in 1744 and have since cultivated woodlands, constructed estate pathways, riding trails, ornamental structures and agricultural land. The impressive structures on location, including the stables and enclosed gardens, are regarded as "architectural gems".Mount Stewart, which previously featured on a provisional list for UNESCO World Heritage Site status, also harbours a diverse range of fauna. Its estate represents one of the limited refuges for the indigenous red squirrel.The Temple of the Winds, constructed on the premises, is an 18th century Grade-I listed structure. It was erected in 1786 by Robert Stewart as a banqueting venue, inspired by the Tower of the Winds in Athens, Greece.Recognised as a trailblazer of neo-Greek design in Europe, Robert observed, drew and recorded measurements of the authentic Greek monument while travelling, replicating it at Mount Stewart. The structure features a vaulted lower level and passageway connecting to a wine storage area and preparation kitchen.Mount Stewart was gifted to the National Trust by Lady Mairi Bury in 1977. She resided in the property until her passing, aged 88, in 2009. Admission to Mount Stewart is priced at £16 for adults throughout peak season and £8 for youngsters. Throughout the off-peak season, costs are £13 for adults and £6.50 for children.
