In a previously hidden part of West Green House, a delicious little secret has been restored.

 

White doors open into this historic orangery, filled with camellias, ferns and oriental lilies. It smells heavenly.

 

The orangery dates from the 1770s retaining the original patina on the walls. The goldfish have been in residence for 30 years; they're never forgotten, being fed every day.

 

One of England's renowned floral artists Ken Turner, designed three garden trophies for the walls over 30 years ago. Newly restored, they continue to add an amusing twist to this most original feature.

 

If you are looking for an unusual place for an intimate celebration, or the most exclusive of special afternoon teas, call us for more information on 01252 844 611.

It's peak lily time, with their rich magenta tones picking up the colour baton from spring's peonies.

The hedge and the pleached trees in the Dragon Garden ensure their scent is retained to the maximum and it's a pleasure to stroll through.

Just one week more and this gorgeous display will be over.

Have you found your plants are much taller this year? Our Crocosmia 'Lucifer' by the small pond is noticeably so this year. We think winter's wetter weather has allowed them to spring forth with renewed vigour.

The bees and other insects are certainly enjoying the extra bounty in this part of the garden.

The late summer flowers are beginning to come to the fore and Terri has put together a fetching display around the well in the walled garden this year. The Heleniums in particular were looking good in this morning's sunshine.

Look out for lots of different Cosmos too - we have white, various pinks and magentas... plus a new yellow shade in many parts of the Alice and Walled Gardens.

The Alice Garden is noted for its topiary and shades of red... and there's a new twist this year with the addition of white.

The hebes forming much of the garden's backbone have burst into bloom like never before, and now they look more like clouds than plants.

An understorey of leucanthemum underpins their frothiness and brings a fresh look to this popular part of the garden.

The swoose is proving to be a popular addition to West Green House, with many pictures shared to social media.

As you can see, he or she is doing well (we don't know yet!), and is curious to find out who these humans are that keep visiting the garden.

One word of warning, he or she has definitely inherited mum's swan temperment and dad's audacity, so is best avoided.

We've just heard Rebecca Parker is featuring West Green House in her The Good Life programme on Radio Solent this Sunday,  31st August, 12 to 2pm.

Learn about West Green's colourful history and restoration.

If you can't make that time, or live outside Radio Solent's area, the programme will be available via BBC's iPlayer for 7 days after broadcast.