Samarès Manor dates back to Norman times and is the traditional home of the Seigneur of the Parish. In the grounds is a thatched dovecote, complete with black swans, which dates at least to the sixteenth century:
In history pigeons (or squabs as they were known) were an important source of food. If you've ever been in a dovecote full of birds, you'll understand where the term squabbling come from!Our reason for visiting was to see Samarès Manor’s herb garden, which is one of the most comprehensive in Europe:
There's an attractive display of herbs, divided into 4 distinct areas: culinary, medicinal, fragrant and cosmetic.
I notice they had the good sense to put the different mints in pots to prevent them escaping!
The plants were clearly labelled, with information about their uses. Talks are also given on herbs.
There's an attractive display of herbs, divided into 4 distinct areas: culinary, medicinal, fragrant and cosmetic.
I notice they had the good sense to put the different mints in pots to prevent them escaping!
The plants were clearly labelled, with information about their uses. Talks are also given on herbs. There's also a café, which I was rather disappointed with. I must do a post on the National Herb Centre which has a much better café!
There's a shop with a wide selection of herbs, apparently UK visitors may take back up to seven plants!
In the grounds there's also a very fine Japanes garden:
Samarès Manor
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