Rare chance to enjoy secret garden

Saturday 17 August 2019

Islanders will tomorrow be granted a rare chance to explore a secret garden in a centuries-old manor house that hasn't been open to the public for more than a decade.

The exclusive opening of St. Saviour-based Beau Désert comes as part of a special fundraiser being put on for St. John Ambulance, which will also afford islanders the opportunity to meet best-selling crime author Peter James.

The historic grounds of Beau Désert, which dates back to the 1400s, include ponds, pools, botanical plants and glorious woodland.

Pictured: The carefully tended gardens of Beau Desert are likely to attract many visitors.

Over the years, it was extended, with a Victorian Tower added in the late 1800s.

Legend has it that the latter addition came as three sons vied with each other to build the tallest building. But these weren't little boys playing with wooden blocks on a hearth rug, but rather men looking to enhance their prestigious homes.

While the exact reason for the tower's addition is unknown, it's believed that the owner at the time wished to be able to read the flags on top of Fort Regent.

The gardens, which are situated next door to Le Quesne Nurseries, will be open from 14:00 until 17:00 tomorrow (Sunday 18 August).

There's a £5 entrance fee, with proceeds going towards St. John Ambulance to help continue their lifesaving work, but children under 12 can go free. Parking in a nearby field opposite St. Saviour's School is also free.

Organisers say delicious Jersey cream teas and cakes will also be on sale. They've also organised nature walks, live entertainment, kids games, and face painting.

Pictured: No 1 crime writer Peter James will also be signing books at the event. (PeterJames.com)

An added bonus is a book signing with the UK's No 1 crime fiction author Peter James.

Organisers say: "For a small donation, you can get a personal book signing with Peter James. Bring your own book or purchase one from the Waterstone's book stands at the open garden on the day."

With a total of 14 Sunday Times No. 1s under his belt, Peter has achieved global book sales of over 20million copies to date, and has been translated into 37 languages.