I’m really excited to be able to bring you this set of images from my ‘A Portrait Project’, The Pollards, The New Guardians of The Gardens.
Abbey House Gardens needs no introduction for any of us from Malmesbury, but for those who haven’t heard of or visited hears a quick summary.
Nestled at the centre of our little town lies Abbey House, a Tudor Manor House with parts dating back to the the Abbots residence from the 12th Century. The Gardens are 5 areas of peace, serenity and spirituality with parts in the location of the original footprint of Malmesbury Abbey. King Athelstan (the first King of all England) is buried somewhere in the garden, he was exhumed from his tomb and reburied to avoid the attention of grave robbers. It is also said that no less than 2 saints came to their end after being thrown down the well.
But now the house and gardens are tended by Rufus, his wife Kristen and Kian Pollard after the sad death of their father Ian earlier this year. And this shoot is to celebrate just that, the passing of the stewardship the new Guardian of The Gardens.
It goes without saying that this is somewhere everyone should spend some time, seasoned garden visitors or not. A walk through the formal gardens, an adventure down to the river and monastic ponds and a coffee or tea with the Koi carp in the Stew Pond. You can now even stay in The Abbey House as an Air b&b, quite unique accommodation I think you’ll agree.
I’d love to hear what you think of the images, as always the easiest way is to comment the post on my page…..RupertBarker Photographer
I’m always on the look out for new subjects for this portrait project, so if you are or know someone who you’d like to see me photograph, please get in touch.
Thanks, Rupert.