OUR GARDEN
Proud to be a part of the National Garden’s Scheme
Our Garden
The barn is quietly situated, in a slightly elevated position, at the top of Henshaw village – giving outstanding and ever changing views of the West Tyne Valley.
In 2006 we inherited farm yard. Ground had been heavily compacted by cattle. From this distinctly unpromising terrain a garden has gradually emerged – incorporating salvaged stone to create different levels – and embracing natural materials to add texture and interest.
It is a traditional garden, with a modern twist (so we are told!) It is designed to encourage wild life, and languorously wraps itself around the house – with spaces deliberately created to provide protection from the prevailing winds.
Guests will find a formal parterre; a rockery with a rill culminating in a mini pond – a densely planted herbacous border – and espaliered fruit trees leading into a laburnum walk.
Immediately beyond the garden is a semi- wild woodland area – and most importantly – John’s allotment – which provides for our table an abundant variety of fresh herbs and salad leaves, vegetables, soft fruit, and country garden flowers.
Our guests are very welcome to explore and enjoy our sweetly scented space, with its varied seating and rich mix of planting – altogether delightful – both for relaxation or for drinks before dinner.
*In the creation of our garden we are privileged to have been involved with the NGS – and to have been featured in the ‘ Amateur Gardening’ magazine.*
What our Guests Have Said
“May all your guests leave as friends” – this saying is cross stitched on a pillow at Henshaw Barn, and it is the truest description of our feelings after staying there for two nights during our Hadrian’s Wall walking holiday.
From the moment we arrived , cold and wet after hiking 15 miles in a driving rain, John and Pauline met us with a warm welcome and a sense of caring that helped us relax. They made us feel like family … showing concern for our comforts, providing amazing food, and taking time to get to know us. And, we genuinely enjoyed getting to know them. Amongst their talents, Pauline is a knowledgeable gardener and John is a skilled chef!
Their home is beautifully situated in the charming village of Henshaw. It is impeccably decorated and adorned with family photos, many books and a lovely art collection.
Our stay with them is one of the highlights of our trip. John and Pauline are superb hosts! We look forward to keeping In touch with them in the future, and returning to Henshaw Barn soon!
Our stay at Henshaw Barn was truly amazing from beginning to end. We were greeted with tea and scones by John with a view over the gorgeous garden, and lots of lovely chat. He set the bar high!
It really is an experience to stay with John and Pauline… our room was fabulous, as was the adjoining bathroom and little sitting room for guests. Lots of lovely little touches, and an abundance of books to read…I didn’t want to leave!!
Dinner was a real treat, with lots of lovely little touches from John’s allotment, and if you’re lucky you will be sharing the table with another lovely couple as we did. Lots of wine flowing, we felt like we were sharing with old friends.
I would definitely, definitely recommend Henshaw Barn, book early so you are not disappointed……