Transform your leisure time outside

I’m writing with the usual caveat that things could change but, currently, the pubs are open, people are out and about – and (whisper it) some warmer, drier weather is forecast! And that makes it much easier to enjoy both our gardens and our favourite places.

We know that some high-profile events like the Chelsea Flower Show have been postponed until the autumn but we’re here to provide some instant inspiration for the summer months.

Make more of your leisure time by treating all your senses to a feast of colour, flavour, fragrance, natural sounds and warmth. Like turning your own back garden into a heavenly spa … have fun!

Chris & all the Bushy team

Pop down to the poppies

If you go down to Chantry Woods today, you’re in for a big surprise! As well as strolling through the leafy woods cared for by the Woodland Trust near Guildford, seek out the meadows there. In June, they are ablaze with poppies, which are truly stunning – but be quick or they’ll be gone!

An oasis of calm

Creating an oasis in your garden is not complicated and just requires a bit of thought and a little landscaping. For example, planting one or two trees like palms can provide shade and add an exotic feel to a patio area. Next, add some large terracotta pots with your favourite flowers and plants – maybe some soothing lavender? Add a statue or sun dial for decor. Of course, we can help you make it as grand as you like!

Lie back in a spa full of bubbles
If you’ve been starved of pampering with the halt on spa days and breaks abroad, being able to immerse yourself in a sea of warm bubbles in your garden is extremely appealing! This luxurious hardshell jacuzzi will make the neighbours jealous – and bring a sense of well-being. (Why not crack open a bottle of bubbles too!).

Unwind in your private labyrinth
A garden labyrinth is a fashionable and interesting feature for a garden and is a great way to – literally – unwind. It doesn’t have those (annoying) dead ends that mazes have and can be as large or small as desired. This one is rather ornate and intricate but a simple one can look just as attractive.

Be the cat with the cream

Getting tickets for the Wimbledon tennis championships this year may be very ‘hit and miss’ so why not have a garden party and watch the matches on TV? Serve an elegant afternoon tea on your finest crockery. How about making Bellini Cream Puffs from Hello magazine? Or astonish your guests with this Wimbledon-inspired strawberry chiffon cake for wow factor. Alternatively, keep it simple and turn a traditional cream tea into a stunner by cutting the strawberries into hearts – love all!

Go a bit further

Stretch those legs a bit further on a longer walk this summer. The Surrey Hills website has some cracking ideas, including the Tilford ‘Birds & Bridges’ Walk, starting from either the Frensham Ponds Visitor Centre or The Rural Life Centre. It also goes past a pub or two – a definite winner!

There are also some beautiful gardens you could visit this month for some inspiration – take a look at The Open Gardens website for events and The National Garden Scheme.

Bushy Beverage

It’s Father’s Day on 20 June! There’s nothing like supporting your local so celebrate by downing your favourite draught tipple. But don’t wait until then, it’s also Beer Day Britain on 15 June. The focus of the day is the National Cheers To Beer (#cheerstobeer) toast at 7pm. I’m not making it up … you’ll just have to join in! Our local breweries include Hogs Back, Surrey Hills and Firebird.

Until next time!

We at Bushy are proud to be recognised for our work and have won several awards, although the pandemic has prevented that in the last year. You can read about some of our accolades here. If you’d like us to help you make your garden award-winning standard, do get in touch. We love creating something beautiful on behalf of our clients!