A Riot of Rhododendrons at the Gateway to Paradise

Muncaster Castle has developed new Kitchen, Herb and Physic Gardens together with a plant centre.

The first stage was opened on April 1st and will continue to be developed over the next few years. Regular visitors will be able to follow the progress of the new gardens.

The plans were inspired by Muncaster's new Head Gardener, Jason Haine. He says the Physic and Herb Gardens will largely be for educational and historical interest.

"We're doing research into writings such as those of Nicholas Culpepper, a famous 17th century apothecary and herbalist, so that we can set up an area devoted to ancient remedies. We're also getting help from top herbalists and physicians to create a section on herbs that are used in modern approved medicines."

The Kitchen Garden will be for culinary, ornamental and educational purposes, with a wide range of both old and new varieties of vegetables. The intention is that the produce will supplement the needs of Muncaster's cafe, Creeping Kate's Ktichen, so that visitors can enjoy home grown salad and vegetables.



An old lean-to Victorian glasshouse will also be restored as part of the plans and restocked with vines and soft fruit.

When Mr. Haine became Head Gardener he was keen to create a new Plant Centre at Muncaster

"People often ask how they can get plants like some of the spectacular shrubs they see on visits to Muncaster. So I wanted to give people the chance to buy genuine "Muncaster grown" plants.

Hardy shrubs, like rhododenrons, will therefore be the mainstay of the Plant Centre. In additon, we'll be selling a range of vegetables, herbs, perennial and climbing plants."

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