Nestling in a woodland corner of Hampshire is this ravishingly attractive 1720's manor house, where busts of gods and emperors watch over the gardens.
West Green House Gardens demonstrate how creative energy is poured into garden making. It is a garden with a distinctive sense of place, made by Marylyn Abbott, selected by Stephen Lacey for the Telegraph as one of the top 20 living garden makers. He writes her swash buckling annual potage displays, fountain gardens and torch lit operas reflect her energy and zest

The garden combines neo-classical style with contemporary design. A grand water staircase provides a focal point to the Nymphaeum Fountain designed by Quinlan Terry. Within the magnificent Walled Garden, faithfully restored to its original lines, an allee of apple trees divides an elaborate potage from its exuberantly planted perennial borders. Beyond the walls is the Lakefield which embraces one of England's most eclectic collections of garden follies. A path leads from the serenity of the lake to the Paradise Water Garden and contemporary chinoiserie inspired Garden of the Five Bridges. It meanders on through a woodland glade to the terraced Theatre Lawn surrounded by tall tapestry hedges.

Always inspirational.