SECRET GARDENS

The secret gardens are open every day and access is signposted via the wood at the rear of How Hill House. There is no set entry fee but donations to the How Hill Trust charity are always very welcome to go towards the upkeep of the gardens.

Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome.

These hidden woodland gardens were established by the original owner of How Hill House, Edward Thomas Boardman in the early 1920’s. The area was once a piece of rough grazing marsh, open and windswept. To create the sheltered garden seen today, oak, sweet chestnut and hornbeam trees were planted on the slope between the gardens and the house and scrubby carr woodland was allowed to establish on the low lying land surrounding the area. Many exotic species were raised from seeds sent by Boardman’s friends and correspondents from around the world.

The azaleas and rhododendrons are especially spectacular during May and June, and in October the autumn colours can be beautiful.

For lots more detailed information about the house, gardens and local history you may like to read ‘How Hill, Heart of the Norfolk Broads’ by former Director of the Trust, David Holmes £3.50.