Tim Richardson describes a selection of 18th-century landscape gardens in England. He declares that they are just as worthy artistic and cultural artefacts as well-known paintings or architecture. I agree -- though I think they are in a somewhat lower category than his example of Gothic cathedrals. The description and history of each garden is helpful alongside the suitably sumptuous photographs. Richardson's thesis ties this to contemporary politics and family connections. He says:
"I have come to believe that the biography of a garden's prime instigator is the surest way to understanding it properly."
This is an interesting but to some extent a narrow view. The general zeitgeist and the ideas of the garden builders were also crucial elements. Nevertheless, as an e-book or as a huge coffee-table volume in print, "The English Landscape Garden" is to be savoured.

Beautifully illustrated and richly informative work on twenty English landscape gardens. Richardson gives information not only on the history of the gardens themselves and the motivations of their builders but the meaning behind the choices made in building the gardens. Who knew that ardent Whigs in the eighteenth century would make specific statuary choices to trumpet their political leanings? Maps of the layout of each garden are also included. I would say definitely a must-read if you're interested in gardens and planning a visit to any of the gardens described, but just a fun informative read if you're interested in the history of English landscape gardens generally.

I thoroughly enjoyed browsing my way through the English Landscape Garden. Composed of beautiful pictures (the eBook version I am sure does not do them justice), and enlightening text we are taken on a tour of some of the most beautiful gardens in England.

I think what I enjoyed the most, were the stories that Richardson tells about the various gardens. He brings to life the passion of those who toil to make these gardens what they are. I am not certain that I could pick a favorite.

I selected this book, because I am planning on taking a trip to England in the spring, and i have no doubt that this book will help make that trip more remarkable. I thank the author and publisher, along with Netgalley for making this copy available for my unbiased review.

The idea of the English garden has always appealed to me as much as afternoon tea and British weather. Culturally different to the laid out geometric gardens in continental Europe, the English garden uses the natural landscape more, so it obviously fits with our climate. Therefore, when this book appeared I knew that I would love it. And I do.

Dreaming of Arcadia is an appropriate subheading. Many of these gardens incorporate stately homes, castles (or remains of) and hills and woodlands - you know, real landscape. If these things are not actually IN the garden then they can be seen as beautiful views. There are lakes, bridges, statues and follies giving the land a luxurious dream-like feel quality. Add to that the lawns are always perfectly manicured. Heavenly.

The gardens are from the Enlightenment picturesque period of the eighteenth century when gardens became more natural and open, and these are perfectly portrayed by the stunning colour photographs in this book. Twenty gardens are listed (nineteen from England and one from Wales) with clear information about the site, architecture and the designer and other fascinating bits of information, including garden maps. Would be a good guide to have on hand when visiting these gardens as there are directions and what to look out for, and wonderful details about each statue and structure. Very interesting and readable appealing to everyone.

Full of history and awe, this stunning book is perfect for those interested in gardens, heritage, travel and grand designs. Something to dip into when the weather gets you down. Even if you only have a small garden with just a few pots of geraniums, this book is inspirational.

As a great lover of the English landscape, this publication is the perfect coffee table book to have on display for guests and to flip through on those days when you want to feel like you’re in a Jane Austen novel. The photos are stunning and evocative, with thorough descriptions of the key locations in the English countryside, detailing their history and setting. Among my favourites are Blenheim Palace and Hagley Hall. Thank you for making me dream of these beautiful landscapes!

“The English Landscape Garden” by Tim Richardson is a beautiful look into eighteenth-century landscape gardens. I would buy it for the photos alone, but there is so much more to this book, from the detailed descriptions to the historical references.

“The English Landscape Garden” transports the reader to the exquisite gardens. I was charmed by them and only hope to have the opportunity to visit them in the future.

While I don’t have a garden, I so enjoy looking at books about them. I just sit down, relax and enjoy some virtual touring. It is a lovely way to spend some time.

In this well put together book, readers can visit twenty gardens including Castle Howard, Chiswick House, Blenheim Palace (all known to me) along with, to name a few (that I did not know), Stowe, Painshill, and Petworth Park among others.

The introduction lets readers know that the focus here is the eighteenth century landscape garden. In this section, learn what exactly and English landscape garden is-for one thing, it is naturalistic. Read a bit more and then get to the gardens. For each of these there photos and text. Dip in anywhere and enjoy!

Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for this title. All opinions are my own.

"The English Landscape Garden" by Tim Richardson is an absolute treasure for anyone who appreciates the beauty and history of gardens. This coffee table book takes readers on a visually stunning tour of some of the most exquisite and memorable gardens in England, showcasing the rich variety and creativity of this centuries-old art form.

Richardson's authoritative and engaging text provides a wealth of information about the history and design of each garden, highlighting the unique features that make each one special. The photography is stunning, capturing the gardens in all their glory, from sweeping vistas to intimate details.

What makes this book truly exceptional is the way Richardson brings each garden to life, sharing the stories of the people who created and cared for them over the years. The result is a celebration of not just the gardens themselves, but of the passion and dedication of those who have tended them.

Overall, "The English Landscape Garden" is a must-have for garden lovers and anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature. It's a book that you'll treasure for years to come, and one that will inspire you to see the gardens of England in a whole new light.

An informative book for landscape garden enthusiasts.
A detailed and beautiful book on 18th century landscape gardens.

Silly me, I thought a book about landscape gardens would be mostly about plants. I guess I should have read the description better. This book is mainly about the statues and outbuildings in the gardens, as well as their historical and political contexts. While the photographs are beautiful, the text didn’t hold my interest. I’m sure others will enjoy this book, though.

I did not know what an English landscape garden is, and thought I would quite like the concept, but in reality it is not appealing to me. Nevertheless, the author is quite knowledgeable about the gardens featured in this book and parses out the history very thoroughly.

I would like to travel to each of these places! It was lovely that this included maps, stories, and pictures of each of the locations mentioned!