Raveningham Hall Garden Party

It was with some trepidation that The Arts Society Norwich approached the date of their annual garden party. Weatherwise, July 2023 was proving to be more unpredictable than usual and with nearly 100 tickets sold for the event, things could have got very soggy or simply blown away! In the event, the day dawned fine and we found our way to Raveningham Hall. Situated not far from a busy main road but as often happens in Norfolk, feeling like the middle of nowhere. Entering the gardens, we were welcomed by a nodding swathe of bright blue Agapanthus and then wound our way through a paint palette of mixed borders followed by an enviable kitchen garden. The garden was the inspiration of Lady Priscilla Bacon who spent around fifty years transforming it from it’s original Edwardian style. Her work included the creation of a ‘Time Garden’ based around a concept of an ancestor, Sir Francis Bacon, who designed ‘a garden for all seasons’ in the 17th century. Intriguingly, there is no connection between him and the 20th century artist of the same name although I enjoyed the symmetry of the two names and the artistic link! Lady Bacon also led the fundraising appeal for a local hospice that shares her name. A new and larger building to house the hospice is currently under construction and a donation to the appeal for this was presented to Sir Nicholas Bacon, current owner and former president of the RHS by our chair, Diana Halstead. We were then invited to take a leisurely stroll through the gardens following the winding paths and reflecting on the history of this family of inspirational gardeners. It was then time to indulge in a delicious afternoon tea prepared by local caterers whilst we relaxed, chatted and enjoyed the peaceful and beautiful surroundings. I’d like to offer huge thanks to our committee members, especially Fiona, Patricia, Diana and their band of helpers. Their work and organisation made a perfect summer afternoon and provided a fitting end to yet another exciting year for our society.