Renishaw Hall and Gardens...The Gardens

 The Gardens

Renishaw is rightly celebrated for the fabulous Italianate gardens. The formal garden was laid out in 1895 by Sir George Sitwell (1860-1943) in the classical Italianate style. Lady Sitwell and the late Sir Reresby restored much of the garden and enhanced the geometric design.

On either side of the formal gardens are more naturalistic plantings and to the east of the garden, holly and camellia avenues lead to paths through mature woodland, down to the lakes originally excavated to enhance the view from the house.

The National Collection of Yuccas at Renishaw Hall

Trevor Key began collecting Yuccas in 1979, his first plant purchased in rather humble surroundings from Tesco Supermarket. 33 years on this plant, now 12 feet tall, has to be regularly pruned to stop it creating strain on the glass roof of the Yuccary.

Throughout the 80’s and 90’s Trevor developed the collection by sourcing rare seeds from throughout the America’s and grew them with his original plant in the greenhouses at Renishaw.

In 1999 the derelict orangery at Renishaw was restored and has now become the permanent home to the National Collection of Yuccas, which now contains more than 40 species and cultivars.

Sculpture

The garden was laid out by Sir George Sitwell from 1886-1889 and he populated it with statues acquired on his many tours of Italy and this collection has been added to by his son Sir Osbert and Sir Reresby and Lady Sitwell.

The two most important statues acquired by Sir George are those of Diana and Neptune, said to be the work of Caligari, friend and contemporary of Tiepolo (1696 –1770). They are placed in the centre of the garden at the southern edge of the Middle Lawn. They do not face the Hall but gaze out of the garden, drawing the eye to the views of nature beyond.

Lorraine Botterill who has provided Renishaw Hall with her beautiful lion and sheep sculptures, among others currently residing in the Children’s Garden, is opening an exhibition of her latest work on the 1st July this year. Lorraine creates her masterpieces through chainsaws of various sizes and she will be demonstrating her skill throughout the day as well as explaining the creative process which goes into producing such beautiful pieces.

Lorraine’s exhibition will run from the 1st July – 30th September 2012.

For more information on Renishaw Hall and Gardens please visit Sheffield City Guide
Alternatively, please contact by phone: 01246 432 310