Open Garden Sat 18th & Sunday 19th June 2016

Posted: 7/6/2016

Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 June 2–5pm

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Mr and Mrs J Rafferty
The Mill House, 140 Ballynashee Road, Glenwherry, Ballymena, BT42 3EW

This serene five acre country garden was featured in BBC’s ‘Greatest Gardens’ with Helen Dillon and Diarmuid Gavin in 2015. Woodland plantings of beech, oak, spruce and silver birch are linked by stone paths, approximately half-a-mile in total, with seating at points of special interest. The paths have recently been extended through a small copse of silver birch under planted with mostly woodland plants including magnolias, azaleas, hydrangeas and hundreds of candelabra primulas. The shady riverside walk defines the area between the Glenwherry River and an old mill race
which feeds two ponds. The larger pond, approximately 0.5 acre, has an island and a boat jetty and is surrounded by raised beds on two levels filled with an eclectic choice of plants. From the top of the rhododendron walk, with over 140 rhododendrons, there are wonderful views across countryside designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Location: The garden is situated on the Ballynashee Road, half a mile from the main Ballymena/Larne Road (A36). Approximately 10 miles from Ballymena and 10 miles from Larne. From Ballyclare take the Colin Road (B94) to the Five Corners pub. Take second road on the right (Sawmills Road). Drive approximately one mile to crossroads and turn left onto Ballynashee Road. Drive 2.8 miles to bridge, garden is on the left. From Broughshane, take Rathkeel Road (B94) towards Ballyclare. After approximately 6 miles at T junction turn left onto A36. After approximately 3 miles turn right onto
Ballynashee Road. House on right. (Please park on Ballynashee Road.)
Plant Stall / Teas

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