Features to Expect in a Japanese Garden

• In Giggle Alley there are winding pathways, stone steps, rockeries and pools of water.
• The Japanese style bridge over a gurgling stream is pictured below.
• The planting includes excellent Maples and colourful leaf combinations.
• Azaleas waft scent around the glades and provide further colour and a sense of harmony.
• A venerable old Magnolia looks half dead but is flowering at the top of several 20′ high branches.

Giggle Alley Design

• Designed in 1914 and left to become overgrown since 1949, the garden at Eskdale is currently being renovated.
• The Forestry Commission created a Design Plan for the Japanese garden 2006-2011 see it on this pdf. You can contribute ideas and comments to the next plan and phase of renovation.
• This Japanese Garden, in Giggle Alley forest, was the jewel in architect James Rea’s horticultural crown.
• There are thickets of bamboo, a stunning display of Japanese maples and the heady scent of azaleas in the spring.
• The whole forest is open to the public.

Wild Life in Giggle Alley

• Bird song hinted at the variety of birds and there is an Owl Glade with native trees.
• It is also intended to maintain the Woodpecker Glade.
• Primrose glade, Fern glade and moss garden will also attract and support wild life.