The Old Rectory, Nacton

About The Old Rectory, Nacton

Just under two acres developed over 34 years with the latest addition: a terrace with steps leading up to main lawn and large herbaceous borders with mixed planting on dry sandy soil. Butterflies abound as do dragonflies breeding in adjacent wood.

Informal paths weave round the mature oak, chestnut and beech trees that border the garden. Yew hedges divide areas into picking/herb garden, rose garden, wild flower area, greenhouse, studio, and a damp dell to the North of the house with lush foliage, willow, ferns, hydrangeas, aconites, snowdrops and hellebores.

In early summer primula and native orchids thrive in damp area.

Abundance of alliums and tulip bulbs, lilac and scented plants. Box hedging and bay lend structure and a beautiful wisteria and rose. Paul’s Himalayan musk add to the wonderful scent in the early June garden.

Salvia, dahlias and asters give autumn interest whilst in spring blossoming trees, bluebells, primroses and anemones along with other spring bulbs bring early colour. The owners have made sure they can create a beautiful bunch of something any week of the year. Planting still a work in progress, always more to do, lots to enjoy including oak compost bins.

The Ship Inn is 2m up road in Levington and does good pub lunches. Lovely walks on the Orwell Estuary with extensive bird life especially at low tide. Nacton is very accessible from Ipswich and surrounding areas.

We're looking at how to bring in more butterflies and deal with very dry conditions in most of the garden. Regional Winner, The English Garden Magazine’s The Nation’s Favourite Gardens 2023