There’s quite a history of rhodedendrons along Glen Goyle. Back in the 1890s:
“Above Manor Road the area originally was a quite pretty area. On the right-hand side of the footpath some of the original plantings remained of shrubs and azaleas. On the other side were a few rhododendrons and down in the stream was a Gunnera and another water loving plant with a large yellow spathes” History of Glen Goyle – Friends of Glen Goyle
And in the grounds of the former Asherton House, the children at the time enjoyed the 1960s shrubs:“
The summers brought many others to join us on the beach and playing hide and seek in the garden. David’s favourite place to hide was underneath the azalea bushes on the Near Lawn. Behind the rhododendrons, behind the bamboo, and under the broom at the top of the bank on the Far Lawn, were also good places.” Asherton House: memories of holidays in Sidmouth – Friends of Glen Goyle
And indeed, there’s quite a history of rhododendrons in Sidmouth. The Victorian nursery Veitch in Exeter employed the famous plantsman William Lobb:“
The fact that William Lobb brought seed of Monterey pine to Britain in 1850 is recorded in Caradoc’s book. I also keep wondering about the rhododendrons in the south west corner of the Knowle as they look extremely old…..” Veitch elsewhere in Sidmouth – Friends of Glen Goyle
Today we can see several splendid specimens along the Glen – as recorded this time two years ago: The rhododendrons are looking superb this year along the Glen – Friends of Glen Goyle
And yesterday, FOGG working party member John Hopkins was enjoying them out in their full glory:
Tidying rhododendrons in the lower path area. These are looking good in the dappled sunshine. Picture attached.
With thanks to John for the photography
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