Hartland Abbey Bluebell Week 2012

For 2012 there will be a ‘Bluebell Week’ instead of just two specific Sundays. It gives everyone a chance to visit on a day of their choice, especially if the weather is variable!

The bluebells at Hartland Abbey stretch from the Walled Gardens to the sea. Another new path will be restored this winter, linking the newly restored Summerhouse to the Gazebo which will be a really exciting new addition to the Hartland Abbey experience in 2012! The Summerhouse, restored in 2010, was last used in the War when Lady Fortescue camped there to write her novels. With this and the new path to the Gazebo opened last year visitors are able to enjoy really wonderful new circular walks in the bluebells to the Gazebo and the sea.

For those who have not visited Hartland Abbey before it is also a chance to walk to ‘Barton Cottage’ which was the home of the Dashwood family in the recent BBC production of ‘Sense and Sensibility’, filmed here in 2007. The bluebells at Hartland Abbey have always been legendary and have been hugely enjoyed by our regular visitors to the Abbey. It is also a chance to see the beautiful wild primroses, violets and orchids. Visitors are welcome to bring their dogs.

There should be lots of lovely plants out in the gardens then; the early rhododendrons, camellias, later bulbs and early perennials amongst others. There will be plenty of opportunity for walking with 3½ miles within the Abbey grounds.

The Tea Rooms will be serving hot pasties, light lunches and home made cream teas. All the proceeds go to St Nectan’s Church, Stoke towards the upkeep of this wonderful church which is really worth a visit. It is within walking distance of the Abbey or a short distance by car.