Thenford: The Creation of an English Garden

Michael Heseltine, a former deputy prime minister of the U.K., and his wife, Anne, a former trustee of Britain’s National Gallery, document the decades-long restoration of their garden at their dream home in Thenford, a small village and main estate in Northamptonshire. They have reclaimed the house from ruin and restored it to its original grandeur. They focus on the restoration of the gardens, which span more than 70 acres, giving an insider’s look at the grittier side of creating the magic, the part that involves plotting, planting, digging, pruning, and excavating. The book is laid out in the manner of a photo album that includes historical and professional photos along with family photos and design sketches, and reading it lends the feeling of intimacy and escape. The authors’ dedication to history, detail, authenticity, and beauty stands out as both an accomplishment and an astonishment, highlighting their vision, devotion to their project, and dedication to tradition. Color photos. (Apr.)