Seasons at Highclere by The Countess of Carnarvon
As Heard on The Daily Gardener Podcast:
Seasons at Highclere by The Countess of Carnarvon
This book came out late in 2021, and the subtitle is Gardening, Growing, and Cooking Through the Year at the Real Downton Abbey.
Oh, my dears, if you love Downton Abbey and gardening, you must get a copy of this book.
If you’ve ever dreamt of strolling through the hallowed halls of Highclere Castle, the very inspiration for Downton Abbey, then Seasons at Highclere is your golden ticket.
This exquisite book is a botanical bonanza, a historical treasure trove, and a culinary delight, all wrapped up in one sumptuous package.
This book was written by the actual Lady of the Manor, Fiona- the Countess of Highclere, and she gives the reader complete access To the English Country House and the garden. As with the fictitious Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle is governed by the seasons, which provide the backdrop to country life on this incredible estate.
Lady Carnarvon, with her inimitable charm and knowledge, invites us into the heart of her beloved castle, revealing its secrets, its stories, and its stunning gardens. From the wildflower meadows to the enchanted woods, each season brings a new wonder to Highclere.
And let’s not forget the delectable recipes inspired by the castle’s bountiful harvests. Imagine savoring a Heritage Tomato Tart or a Honeyed Winter Vegetable Salad, all while gazing upon the breathtaking beauty of the estate.
This book gives complete access to the world-renowned historic country house and showcases the rhythm of the seasons at Highclere, focusing on gardening, harvesting, cooking, and entertaining.
As you might expect, the photographs are beautiful. They were commissioned specifically for this book. And the illustrations are simply divine, capturing the essence of Highclere in every detail. From the grandeur of the castle itself to the delicate blooms of the gardens, each image is a feast for the eyes. And the anecdotes and historical tidbits scattered throughout the book add a fascinating layer of depth, making the castle feel even more alive.
Imagine being a guest at Highclere and having the countess, Fiona, be your host. Well, this book gives you that opportunity.
Fiona Carnarvon ("cah-NAR-vin") is a generous authority on the history and daily life of the castle. She gives us an in-depth tour of the gardens, the country folklore, the harvesting, the menus, the cooking (with the fantastic recipes - baked broccoli with parmesan eggs and pineapple cake with vanilla icing - OMG!), and the spectacular entertaining with all the little touches.
What is sure to charm about this book are the people of Highclere, Fiona and her staff, the incredible grounds, the traditions, the ideas, the sheer pure enjoyment of the seasons, and the love of English country life.
Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a fan of Downton Abbey, Seasons at Highclere is a must-have. It’s a book that will transport you to a bygone era, fill your heart with joy, and leave you longing to visit this enchanting castle. So, grab your teacup, curl up by the fire, and let Lady Carnarvon guide you on a verdant voyage through Highclere Castle. It’s a journey you’ll never forget.
This book is a big one - 321 pages - of Highclere - it's not stuffy, and it's not impractical - but it's something very special - authentic and unapologetically inviting.
SI HORTUM IN HORTORIA PODCASTA IN BIBLIOTEHCA HABES, NIHIL DEERIT.
