The Black Pond, Westwell Manor.

We visited Westwell Manor gardens in Westwell, Oxfordshire today.

Set in 6 acres surrounding an old Cotswold manor house (not open), with knot garden, potager, shrub roses, herbaceous borders, topiary, earth works, moonlight garden, auricula ladder, rills and water garden.

I have photographs of many of these features but was forced to choose one.

The black pond, not designed for swimming, is only one metre deep and lined with butyl rubber.

It is therefore not attractive to water birds.

The dashing figure in salmon pink at the far end is the "Lord of the Manor", Thomas Gibson.

He late wife was the famous garden designer Anthea Gibson and this property is the most magnificent tribute to her stunning garden design.

Stop Press. I have managed to upload the auricular ladder and the rills, with their pleached lime tree guard of honour.