In the past Jersey was split into feudal fiefs . According to the Assize Roll of 1309 the fiefs could only be held by 'grand sergeants' which meant that the Seigneur of the fief owed some service to the Sovereign ( King or Queen). An example of the type of service in 1309 was that the Seigneur of Samares had to ride into the sea up to his spurs to meet the king when he visited the island. Now that conjures up a pretty sight. Hopefully Storm Katie wasn't blowing at the time, or should that be Storm Athelberta!
Samares has been looked after ever since by the Seigneur. Through time it has had an intriguing history, but fortunately it is now a place to visit and enjoy. The word Samares means salt marsh. This tells you a little about the land here. Very flat and with the need to be drained. One of the perks of being Seigneur of Samares was the right to salt deposits from the surrounding marshes.
Arriving in early Spring I had the place to myself. Few visitors have reached these shores yet and only a few mums and their offspring were enjoying the space. Making my way to one of the many ponds I was a little concerned to see so little wildlife. Normally black swans reside along with geese, mallards and other species of duck. Perhaps they were having a mid morning wander. Hopefully they will be around on my next visit.
The Japanese garden holds a variety of azaleas that were beginning to flower and look beautiful against a Japanese pergola.
The fritillaries were flowering at the base of tree trunks. Hints of green could be seen from the many willow trees. These create a beautiful scene in summer against the ponds.
One of my favourite areas is the herb garden. This was created in the early eighties in a walled garden. I love the arched entry way. To get a better view a platform has been created to look down on the walled garden.
This is just to whet your appetite. just think what it will look like in a few months. They grow mint in clay pots. Such a clever idea to stop the mint spreading too far.
The present Seigneur of Samares is very aware of conservation and particularly the need for bees. He has set up his own hives. You can watch their activity though a specially designed hide. He even has close circuit camera for you to view the bees coming and goings. The bees live next to a specially created pollinating garden filled with fruit trees and suitable plants.
My tour finally unearthed a few very noisy geese and a very tranquil pond.
Before finishing with a bluebell wood and camellia garden.
I will be back soon to view the changes with the seasons. What plants do you grow to encourage bees I wonder?
Barbara xx
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