The Japanese Garden

Thomas Simpson’s admiration for the elegance and detail of Japanese horticulture. To shape an authentic atmosphere, he imported original stone and bronze artefacts from Japan, many of which still define the garden today.

Authentic Flora and Tranquil Waters

The planting palette includes Japanese wisteria, Wisteria floribunda, draped around the Tea House, along with Kurume Hybrid azaleas, several flowering Prunus species and the rich leaf colour of Acer palmatum. Ginkgo biloba, introduced to Japan from China in the 7th century and now closely associated with Japanese landscape design, also features in the collection.

The garden reaches its seasonal high point in May when the azaleas flower, while the layout, planting, and water features provide visual interest throughout the year. Visitors crossing the stepping stones will often see large koi carp gathering in the pond below.