The garden was open by appointment to groups of up to 12. I had groups most days from the end of April to mid May. The best display was week beginning 9th May a bit later than 2009 because of the very cold winter. A total of £350.00 was given to Help for Heroes, which is based on the Downton Industrial Estate, near here.
There was a lovely article about the collection in the March 2010 edition of Country Living. Some visitors booked having seen the article. At the end of April (before the collection was at its best) a film crew came from French TV1. Their feature was broadcast on lunchtime French TV on Bank Holiday Monday 3rd May.
There is to be an article on The Montanas in the RHS magazine, The Garden, March 2011 issue (comes out February 2011).
Sadly, my husband, Chris, died on New Years Day. I have, therefore, decided not to open the garden for large groups this year. Instead I am happy to make bookings for small groups (up to 12) at a time. Home made light refreshments will be available on request so please let me know if you would like refreshments when booking. There will be no charge but any donations made will go to charity. Visitors may not get the pristine garden I normally expect to provide but the Montana collection should still be stunning.
As I write, 30th March 2010, many of the cultivars are already in bud and leaves are unfurled despite the cold, windy and wet winter and early spring. I would, therefore, expect the collection to be at its best between late April and mid May.
As we are on a steep slope, please ensure you are wearing suitable shoes/boots.
Contact me for further information or to arrange a visit via email at val@lmnp.co.uk or telephone 01725 511931.
I look forward to meeting you – Val.
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