Introduction

This week, I went looking for fresh inspiration outdoors as autumn begins to creep in. My visit took me to Witley Court and Gardens, a once-grand country house now standing in ruins after a 19th-century fire.

Even in its damaged state, the building is breathtaking. Standing beneath its arches, it’s easy to imagine the elegance it once had.

For me as a botanical artist, being there in early autumn was the perfect opportunity to notice the seasonal changes. The shifting light, the first hints of colour and the little details in nature that often go unobserved.

Setting the Scene

It was a somewhat cool and windy day when I visited the site. Leaves were beginning to change colour and fall, leaving a satisfying crunch underfoot as I walked through the forest areas. The surrounding trees immediately caught my eye, some heavy with vibrant berries. The textures of the plants and the quiet whistle of the wind made for a calming environment in which to study nature.

Witley Court sits grandly, with lush gardens and dense forest nestled nearby.

Botanical Highlights

Unsurprisingly, Witley Court’s gardens and forest provide an endless supply of plants to study. From flowers to trees, there was plenty to inspire my work.

Some of the highlights included:

• Hawthorn trees (Crataegus): dense branches adorned with small red berries.
• Holly trees (Ilex): their berries subtly reminding me of the holiday season ahead.
• Immature conkers (Aesculus hippocastanum): spiky shells offering endless visual appeal and textural interest.
• Begonias (Begonia): still bright yellow, a cheerful reminder of summer days past.

My Artistic Process

Studying these plants up close was the best way to observe their true character. I made detailed notes on colour, form and rarity, while thinking about how the photos I took could inspire my botanical art.

It’s possible to work from reference images, but experiencing plants in their natural habitat provides a calming connection to nature and a deeper understanding of their unique characteristics.

Reflection

My visit reminded me of the importance of exploring historic venues like Witley Court and Gardens. The vast buildings, diverse plant life, and relaxing atmosphere offer a welcome break from working indoors. It’s a gentle reminder to get outdoors and study plants in their natural environment.

Closing Thoughts

Autumn at Witley Court and Gardens highlights the seasonal shift beautifully, from berries and changing leaves to interesting textures everywhere. Observing these plants in their natural setting provided both inspiration and restoration, emphasizing the value of exploring historic landscapes to stay connected with nature.

Witley Court and Gardens are maintained by English Heritage. Visiting supports their mission to preserve our rich history and offers a chance to be inspired by the beauty of both nature and heritage.

I also filmed a YouTube video of the visit, be sure to check it out here!