This unique landscape speaks of its farming heritage by taking cues from the agricultural buildings, which have been left in situ and reclaimed by time, the elements and its hospitable owners, Rob and Kim Hurst, who have upcycled on a grand scale.
Steel structures, like the monumental Dutch barn, which once housed a hop machine, have been partly deconstructed and repurposed as rustic garden rooms and prodigious plant supports clothed in colossal climbers.
A scree garden seamlessly segues into a swimming pond, serving up a coastal vibe in this exposed site beneath big, blustery skies. A grain-silo-come-beech-hut, is home to a fanatical filtration system, which preserves crystal clear waters.
From its peat-free beginnings in 1976 to the numerous awards, including Chelsea Gold Medals, this inspiring family-run nursery, in the Teme Valley, continues to set the gold standard for growing quality herbs, aromatic plants and hardy perennials.
The nursery and garden are not usually open to the public, instead offering garden and plant enthusiasts the opportunity to visit, usually followed by teas in the barn or garden, if weather permits. For further details visit: www.thecottageherbery.co.uk
The Chi Gardener 