Iford Manor: The Peto Garden

About

Internationally renowned, Grade 1 listed, Italianate gardens designed by Harold Peto, who made Iford his home from 1899-1933. Characterised by terraces, pools, statuary cloisters and remarkable rural views, the garden is an archetype of its period and a historic design gem. The present owners have restored and today maintain the historic gardens and the ethos of their original designer through modern borders blended with historic plantings, and today welcome visitors to their home five days a week, with coach visits available outside normal hours. A housekeeper's tearoom serves homemade cakes and light refreshments at weekends and there is a cake-of-the-day during weekdays at the entrance desk. The gardens are steeply terraced, partially accessible to disabled visitors, who are recommended to call ahead for assistance. The gardens are not well suited to children because of unfenced ponds and other hazards. The owners are keen to protect a tranquil environment for visitors.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes