Friars Court is an unusual house in the fact that it is a moated property. The moat is thought to be at least 500 years old and partially encompasses the house and 4 acres of main gardens. It was not used as a means of defensive but was for keeping livestock out for the grounds, which were used for growing vegetables, as well as for breeding silver carp for food. The original carp ponds, which lie to the front of the house, were filled in about 1850, although a restoration project in 1999 has returned them to their original position.

Circular walks can be taken around the moat either by crossing the arched Moat Bridge by the twin Yew trees to the Woodland and Nature Walks whilst a level path leads down through the South Walk and round to the Moat Ponds. An ideal route for wheelchair users.

A corner of the grounds is dedicated to alternative energy and there are displays showing how the wind and sun can generate electricity to be stored in batteries and used for a variety of practical applications. Nearby there is a 4.5 kilowatt solar array that contributes towards the electrical requirements of the house and farm.

The gardens are under a constant phase of improvement which in recent years has seen the creation of the 'Garden of Reflection’ where a combination of trellising and mirrors create an almost maze-like sense of enclosure as well as confusing glimpses both of the viewer and of the gardens beyond. Meanwhile the 'Winterhalter' Wedding Garden has been created to provide a beautiful, romantic and nostalgic backdrop for wedding photographs, and was inspired by a painting of Franz Xavier Winterhalter (1805 – 1873).

Visitors can learn more about Friars Court in the Display Rooms where more information explains; the history of the house and farm, a display of Roman and mediaeval artefacts recovered from the land, monitoring equipment for the solar array and examples of energy saving light bulbs that can be used to save electricity and money.

Open Garden Days 2008

Sunday 6^th April 2008

In association with Marie Curie Cancer Care the gardens of Friars Court will be open to the public between 2.00pm until 5.00pm when visitors may come see the flowering daffodils planted in 2007 in the ‘Field of Hope.

Tuesday 1^st July 2008

In association with the British Red Cross the gardens will be open to the public between 2.00pm and 5.00pm.

For more information please call Charles Willmer on (01367) 810206.

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