A Haven of Tranquility awaits at Stonyford Cottage Gardens

Our Story

A Story of Transformation

 

Stonyford Cottage Gardens, located in the heart of Cheshire, is a peaceful oasis that belies its humble beginnings. 35 years ago, the property was a derelict cottage with swampy marshland gardens and a field of pasture. But today, it is a stunning garden that visitors describe as a “haven of tranquility.” This transformation is all thanks to the vision and hard work of the Overland family.

 

Tony and Janet Overland and their three children moved to Stonyford Cottage in the 1980s. Tony, who had a passion for gardening, was determined to turn the property into a beautiful garden. The family started by creating the Embankment pathway, which was the only access to the fields across the lake at the time. Over the years, they added further pathways and wooded walkways, gradually developing the gardens into what they are today.

 

Tony’s love of gardening started when he was a student at Kew Gardens, where he is still an active member of the Kew Guild. His sons, Philip and Andrew, followed in his footsteps by gaining qualifications in both Landscape Architecture and Horticulture. Meanwhile, his daughter Carole has created the Stonyford Cottage Gardens website, online shop, and arranged events and workshops at the nursery.

 

The family works together as a team and has dedicated themselves entirely to developing the plant nursery and gardens so that visitors can now join and share the experience that it offers. They have lovingly created the gardens over the years and have received recognition for their hard work. The gardens have been featured on “Gardener’s World,” chosen as one of the “Top Ten Spring Gardens in the Telegraph,” and are now one of “Cheshire’s RHS Partner Gardens.”

 

The gardens themselves are a breathtaking sight, with woodland, water gardens, and plants to explore. Visitors can stroll along the pathways, marveling at the beauty of the flowers and plants, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The plant nursery is also a must-visit for garden enthusiasts, offering a wide range of plants, including many rare and unusual varieties

Below are some photos of the behind the scenes work at Stonyford.  New Garden features, footpaths & walkways are just some of the work that is carried out during the winter season.

In conclusion, Stonyford Cottage Gardens is a testament to the transformative power of hard work, dedication, and a love for gardening. What was once a neglected property has been turned into a beautiful and tranquil oasis, thanks to the vision and hard work of the Overland family. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Stonyford Cottage Gardens is a must-visit destination that will leave you feeling inspired and refreshed.