Dunge Valley Gardens are 1000 feet above sea level and are situated close to Whaley Bridge, in the Peak National Park. These privately owned and beautiful gardens, planted and maintained by David and Elizabeth Ketley are open to the public. The couple have lived at Dunge Valley since 1976, and started planting the gardens in 1982, initially with trees and shrubs to provide a natural windbreak for the more tender species.

Click on any of the photographs for a larger view

The house and pond, viewed from the bottom of the rhododendron dell

The garden pond is fed by the natural stream running through the garden

Extensive planting in the Lower Wild Dell

The garden is a 'must visit' garden, designed in a natural ravine, with a natural stream running through. The valley floor and sides are planted with a wide variety of rhododendrons and a multitude of other woodland plants and bulbs. All the photographs shown here were taken in mid June.

The photographs above are of the lower part of the garden, either close to the house or in the Lower Wild Dell. Wheelchairs are restricted to a patio giving views of the gardens in front of the house. The true beauty of the gardens and the ' hidden ' Rhododendron Dell and Woodland Garden can only be accessed on foot. A steep climb for some people perhaps, but well worth it. Don't wear your best shoes!

Astilbes, irises, primulas and other moisture loving plants are grown in the Lower Wild Dell

Rhododendrons are a special feature of Dunge Valley Gardens

Many of the garden's rhododendrons are available from the plant nursery

The 'hidden' parts of Dunge Valley Gardens can only be viewed on foot

Species of rhododendron abound in the Rhododendron Dell. Many are labelled and the varieties are available for sale in the garden's expanding nursery. Plants in the garden have been obtained from a number of sources, including distant countries such as Nepal or China, or by keen, amateur plant collectors.

The beauty of the rhododendrons in mid June

The valley sides and floor are amass with plants. The walkway can be seen at the top of the picture.

The woodland walk is at the top of the valley's garden

A wide variety of plants have rapidly become established in this 20 year old garden

The shaded, moist, Woodland Walk at the upper end of the ravine is well suited to a wide range of primulas and other woodland plants and bulbs.

For details of opening times, a map showing the location of Dunge Valley Gardens and current admission prices visit the proprietors' website. Once you've found this ' hidden gem ', invest in David and Elizabeth Ketley's guide book before you make your tour. The booklet's centre page shows a map of the pathways and points of interest. In addition the guide book gives a comprehensive history of the garden, and the flora and fauna to be found there.

| Gardening for wildlife | | Wild flowers |

Search Tips - Site Map - Main Page