Ramster

About Ramster

Ramster Gardens is a unique woodland garden of over 20 acres. It was laid out in 1890 in association with a local nursery, Gauntletts of Chiddingfold, well known for their interest in flowering shrubs and Japanese planting. The Japanese influence on the garden is still much in evidence today, with the avenue of Acer dissectum, now over 120 years old, the ornamental stone lanterns, and the large plantings of bamboos. In 1922 the property was bought by Sir Henry and Lady Norman, the estate remains in the same family today. Lady Norman was a keen gardener, the daughter of Lord Aberconway, she had been brought up at Bodnant, where she developed her lifelong love of the rhododendrons for which Ramster is famous today. While maintaining the essence of the original design Ramster moves on to new projects and plantings. New plantings of a Centenary Garden – to celebrate our family 100 years at Ramster and Summer Garden can now also be seen.

Ant Wood is the home of the Hardy Hybrid Rhododendron Collection, comprising over 200 different varieties. The bog garden has matured, and the Tennis Court Garden displays modern garden architecture while remaining in keeping with its woodland surroundings. The gardening techniques used allow the meadow grasses, wild flowers and orchids to flourish, in the summer months. In April the garden is a mass of magnolias, camellias and daffodils, while in May it is ablaze with rhododendrons, and azaleas, the ground is a carpet of bluebells which scent the air, and make exploring this peaceful haven a magical experience.
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The teahouse, by the entrance to the garden is open every day while the garden is open, serving locally roasted coffee, delicious cakes and fresh sandwiches, home-made quiches and soup. Sculpture Exhibition runs in May. Regional Finalist, The English Garden Magazine’s The Nation’s Favourite Gardens 2023.