The period after the winter solstice is a fascinating transition. The days subtly grow longer, sparking hope for the new gardening year, yet winter’s chill still holds firm. As poet Mary Oliver beautifully puts it, “the vivacity of what was is married to the vitality of what will be.”

Winter’s Hidden Gems: The Dogwoods of Goldstone

Few plants shine in winter quite like the brightly stemmed dogwoods at the front of Goldstone Hall Hotel. All year, these Cornus species stand quietly while other shrubs, trees, and perennials take the spotlight. In winter their ordinary leaves fall away to reveal stunning stems in shades of red, yellow, green, purple, black, and blazing orange—an unmissable burst of colour against the frosty landscape.

A Year to Remember: Goldstone on BBC Gardeners’ World

2024 brought a highlight we’re incredibly proud of: Goldstone Hall Garden was featured on a winter special of BBC Gardeners’ World! Filmed in summer and hosted by the inimitable Carol Klein, the segment explored how a thoughtfully designed garden can engage all the senses—not just the visual. It was an honour to host the BBC crew, and if you missed it, the episode is still available on BBC iPlayer. Why not enjoy it from the comfort of your room during your next stay, just see the watch list on your smart TV.

Breathing New Life into Goldstone Meadow

Our efforts to restore Goldstone Meadow have paid off. When we first acquired the land, poor drainage left stagnant pools and lifeless soil. After installing new drains, the transformation has been dramatic.

Oxygen has returned, microbial life is flourishing, and the ecosystem is bouncing back.

Fancy a stroll? Bring your wellies and see the progress firsthand—but mind the trenches still settling into place!

Polytunnels, Winter Salads, and a Fresh Start

Behind the scenes, the gardening team has been busy. Sarah has sown an array of winter salad leaves in the polytunnels, including chicory and endive. These leafy vegetables thrive in the colder months, developing a crisp bitterness that adds a sharp, refreshing note to dishes—perfect after indulging in Christmas treats!

Meanwhile, preparations for the year are already underway. From herbaceous perennials to tender annuals, shrubs, and climbers, we’re cultivating plants to ensure the garden flourishes in 2025.

Committed to Sustainability

At Goldstone Hall, we believe in nurturing the soil as much as the plants. That’s why we’ve built a state-of-the-art composting area to transform garden waste into nutrient-rich compost. It’s part of our commitment to sustainable gardening—using what the garden provides and giving back to it in equal measure.

Visit and Be Inspired

The garden at Goldstone Hall Hotel is ever-evolving, and we’d love for you to experience its beauty firsthand. Stop by for a stroll, and if you catch Sarah or me in the garden, we’d be delighted to share what we’re working on.

Here’s to a flourishing 2025—wishing you all the best and hoping to see you soon in the garden!

The Gardening Team 

Take time out from the hustle and bustle and treat yourself to a cozy winter getaway at Goldstone! A Georgian manor house and restaurant with 12 comfortable bedrooms overlooking the rolling tree-strewn hills of the North Shropshire countryside. Boasting 5 acres of award-winning gardens, including a productive one-acre kitchen garden.

Enjoy our Winter Warmer Break, where comfort meets charm. This special offer includes:

• A luxurious overnight stay in our comfortable bedrooms
• A hearty breakfast to kick-start your day
• Access to our stunning gardens, even in winter!
• Available Monday to Friday, starting at just £290.00 per night!

Whether you’re looking to relax by the fire or explore the beautiful Shropshire countryside, Goldstone is the perfect retreat.

Book your winter escape today quoting: winterwarmer

We are located in the ‘Golden Garden Triangle’ close to Wollerton Old Hall Garden, Hodnet Hall Gardens & Dorothy Clive Garden.  

A warm welcome awaits you.