Secret Gardens of the Cotswolds | Hugo Rittson-Thomas & Victoria Summerley

In Secret Gardens of the Cotswolds, Hugo Rittson Thomas and Victoria Summerley open the gates to some of the region’s most exclusive and meticulously crafted gardens. Their combined artistry brings to life the textures, colours, and stories behind these extraordinary landscapes.

This beautiful corner of England has a rich tradition of garden making, which is explored in this very personal view by photographer Hugo Rittson-Thomas and journalist Victoria Summerley, both residents of this green pocket with more than its fair share of beautiful and interesting gardens. Some of the gardens are strictly private, while others are regularly open to visitors, but all can now be savoured and enjoyed along with those who know them best.

The gardens: Abbotswood, Ablington Manor, Asthall Manor, Bourton House, Burford Priory, Colesbourne Park, Cornwell Manor, Cotswold Wildlife Park, Daylesford House, Dean Manor, Eastleach House, Eyford House, Kingham Hill House, Rockcliffe, Sarsden, Sezincote, Stowell Park, Upton Wold, Walcot House, and Westwell Manor.

The book blends atmospheric photography with thoughtful commentary, creating a rich portrait of English horticultural heritage. A must‑have for anyone who appreciates refined garden design and the quiet beauty of the Cotswolds countryside.

About the Authors
Hugo Ritterson-Thomas is one of the UK’s leading portrait photographers. He started his career in the art world, studying at Central Saint Martins and in Goldsmiths, University of London and took part in the landmark exhibition Temple of Diana alongside Tracey Emin at The Blue Gallery in 1999. In 2012 he was privately commissioned to photograph the Cotswolds gardens of Eyford House, Cornwell Manor and Asthall Manor and has worked alongside acclaimed garden photographer Andrew Larson.

Victoria Summerly is an award-winning garden journalist and was executive editor of the Independant newspaper in the UK. She lives in Bibury, Gloucestershire, the village once described by William Morris as ‘the most beautiful village in the Cotswolds.