Gardens Open

You often pass along the twin parallel terraces of Mwrog Street without seeing the gardens behind. You know those on the north side have long ones because of the distance to Ty'n y Parc.

Nosy neighbours had an opportunity on Sunday to explore one such garden. That at no. 46 Mwrog Street was open under the national garden scheme. And what a treat. Not only was no. 46 seemingly the width of two houses, its long garden widened as it encompassed most of that of an adjacent property. Follow the crackle of slated paths to the clever use of trellising and an archway, ensuring that the garden only slowly unfolded its well-stocked secrets. Parts were semi-wild, with natural plants allowed to blossom where they were. Others revealed tamed corners, for sitting and relaxing. Truly a treasure behind a row of terraces.

This was one of six gardens open for charity, on Sunday. Another was Nantclwyd y Dre (where the normal admission prices prevailed) and it gave onlookers an opportunity to see the juxtaposed, acclaimed, though decidedly strange piece of artwork, the 1960s "Part Four Sculpture 1".

The town garden at Berwyn was also open. It must be the tiniest of all gardens under the national garden scheme but a delight, nonetheless. Crammed full of surprises, the terraces on both sides of a single path from Upper Clwyd Street to the door is only 15 to 20 feet long yet manages to squeeze considerable colour and variety in to the smallest space. It's an inspiration to anyone with a tiny garden. And were those potatoes growing in the corner?

Sir John Trevor House, Castle Street and Castell Rhuthun Castle were open by appointment only and this, disappointingly, somewhat limited the enjoyment of the scheme and the value you get for your combined £5 entry. Never mind, though, as Sir John Trevor House appeared to be nothing more than a large collection of pots and containers!!