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Johnsons of Whixley elevates Blenheim Palace and Plas Isaf retreats

26 Jun 2023 | BALI Member News

Accredited Supplier, Johnsons of Whixley, has provided an impressive £130,000 worth of plants for two prestigious holiday park developments by Darwin Escapes. The highlight of this collaboration is the eagerly anticipated self-catering retreat set to open this summer on the magnificent Blenheim Palace Estate. As the primary supplier of plants for these projects, Johnsons of Whixley's contribution will enhance the outdoor spaces of these luxury lodge retreats, adding a touch of natural splendour to the already breathtaking settings.

The Yorkshire-based horticultural business has been chosen as the primary supplier of plants for the project, which will see a collection of one, two and three-bedroom lodges constructed in the grounds of the historic Blenheim Palace Estate. The retreat will be the first venue of its kind on the grounds of a historic British palace.

With a supply worth £100,000, Johnsons of Whixley has provided a diverse range of plants to enhance the outdoor areas of the Lodge Retreat, which is a blend of contemporary and traditional design in keeping with the Palace and its grounds. From Lavender, Euonymus and Hebe shrubs to vibrant Perennial plants including Rudbeckia, Geraniums, Iris and Salvia, the selection encompasses a rich variety of species, each carefully chosen to create a harmonious and captivating ambience.

Drawing from their extensive horticultural expertise, Johnsons of Whixley has curated a diverse range of plant species to complement the Lodge Retreat's blend of contemporary and traditional design, harmonizing with the surrounding Palace and its grounds. Lavender, Euonymus, and Hebe shrubs will bring elegance, while vibrant Perennial plants such as Rudbeckia, Geraniums, Iris, and Salvia will infuse the landscape with a burst of color. Each plant has been thoughtfully chosen to create a captivating ambience, transforming the retreat into a natural haven.

Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat: Johnsons of Whixley's collaboration with Darwin Escapes extends beyond the Blenheim Palace project. The esteemed nursery has received an additional order to supply the grounds of Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat in North Wales, a recent venture by Darwin Escapes that opened its doors earlier this year. With plants worth £30,000 delivered to date, the selection includes an array of hedging varieties such as Acer campestre, Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Ligustrum vulgare, Pyracantha 'Red Column,' Prunus rotundifolia, Sambucus nigra, and Viburnum opulus. This assortment adds charm and tranquility to the retreat's surroundings.

Johnsons of Whixley's enduring relationship with Darwin Escapes is built on trust and shared commitment to excellence. The nursery has previously supplied plants for several notable Darwin Escapes projects, including Sandymouth, Woodside Beach, Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat, Canterbury Fields, Stratford Armouries, Norfolk Woods, and The Springs. This ongoing collaboration showcases the mutual respect and appreciation between the two companies.

Eleanor Richardson, Marketing Manager at Johnsons of Whixley said:

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Darwin Escapes and to have the opportunity to supply both Blenheim Palace Lodge Retreat and Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat. “Our team is dedicated to sourcing and supplying the finest quality plants, tailored to the unique requirements of each project to enhance the natural beauty and appeal of the landscape.”

Lindsey Esse, Managing Director of Darwin Escapes added:

“Johnsons of Whixley have once again supplied us with a beautiful range of plants which perfectly enhance the landscape of our two newest luxury lodge retreats”. 

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