The National Trust has completed a landmark restoration of the Long Garden at Cliveden in Buckinghamshire, reinterpreting one of the estate’s most iconic formal spaces for a changing climate while preserving its historic character.
Stretching 200 metres, the garden was originally designed in the 1930s by renowned garden designer Norah Lindsay for the Astor family. Known for her bold, textured planting and sculptural topiary, Lindsay’s influence remains central to the reimagined scheme.
The restoration replaces seasonal bedding with a more sustainable planting palette of shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses. Visitors can now enjoy striking yew “pin cushions,” tall beech “beehives,” and herbaceous borders designed for year-round appeal.
In summer, dramatic plants immerse visitors within the garden, while in winter rose hips, grasses, and seedheads provide structure and food for wildlife.
Robert Miles, General Manager at Cliveden, said: “This restoration is about more than preserving a beautiful garden – it’s about reinterpreting a historic design for the future. Norah Lindsay’s bold vision has guided us, and we’ve worked to ensure the Long Garden remains a place of inspiration, biodiversity and accessibility for generations to come.”
The project was led by Cliveden’s garden team in collaboration with landscape designer James Scott of The Garden Company. He explained: “Cliveden attracts thousands of visitors every year. What I really hope is that when people visit the redesigned Long Garden, they will find it a very immersive, tranquil experience.”
A no-dig approach was adopted to reduce soil disturbance, while the biodiverse mix of plants has been chosen to attract pollinators and wildlife. Head Gardener Anthony Mason said: “We’ve designed the garden to have interest all year round and be relevant to today’s modern climate.”
Accessibility has also been enhanced. The central path has been widened and laid with durable Yorkstone paving, while new automated gates open each morning to welcome visitors and close at night to protect against deer. Conservation of the garden’s historic walls completed the project.
For the National Trust, the reimagined Long Garden represents a blend of past and future. As Head of Gardens and Parks Sheila Das noted: “Gardening is a future-focused act… as we adapt our approach to climate and resources, we can find new beauty and inspiration.”
