Historic gardens flying the flag again

A pair of patriotic Union Jack gardens at Wentworth Castle, near Barnsley, planted in 1714 to mark the Act of Union between England and Scotland 300 years ago, have been restored at a cost of 290,000.

The gardens – one of England’s rarest 18th century garden landscapes – were created by Thomas Wentworth, First Earl of Strafford, who was a keen advocate of the new United Kingdom and wanted to show his support.

He instructed his gardeners to lay out the two one-acre plots at the rear of the Grade 1 Wentworth Castle in the shape of the Union flag, using oaks, yew, holly, laurel and other plants.

Many were kept regimentally trimmed – but over the years the striking design became overgrown with vegetation.

But experts have used historic documents and illustrations to revive the gardens by moving plants and cutting back and felling trees.

Andy Wimble, English Heritage regional landscape architect, said: “Too many of our historic landscapes in Yorkshire have been lost over the years, so it gladdens the heart to see work at Wentworth reviving our heritage for a new generation.”