Exotic Explorations

Hi there one and all,

This is a very brief post mostly to plug the most beautiful little place I have ever had the pleasure to experience in the UK. Granted, I know as much about plants as I do about chemistry…it’s all voodoo to me. However, you don’t need to understand horticultural happenings to appreciate real natural splendor or applaud serious hard work and commitment.

Set back in (almost) the middle of Norwich ‘ye olde fine’ city, is a house and a garden. But you would be forgiven for missing the house as it lies nestled amongst and half buried by a tropical jungle of the kind one would have to travel thousands of miles to see. Giant parasol-esque leaves, heaven-reaching bamboos, fluorescent flowers, defensive looking cacti and geometric shapes to make you boss-eyed. There is even a remarkable tree house you can clamber up to in order to survey the jungle from an altogether different angle.

The gentleman responsible for such gloriousness is ex-botanical illustrator and horticulturalist Will Giles. Not content with being an extremely talented chap, he also happens to be one of the kindest people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting.

And guess what?! Will invites members of the public to enjoy the fruits of his labour of love over the summer by opening his doors to Joe public. So I must implore all those in Norfolk or indeed planning a visit this fine way, to make a trip to ‘The Exotic Garden’ and climb your way through thick foliage. The place has the same affect on one as the labyrinth was famed for, you shall forget where you are or whence you came. All that will matter are the moments you spend in the calmness of Will’s garden. And if you’re really lucky you’ll encounter some of the exotic feline wildlife.

Go forth and forage!

www.exoticgarden.com