The Neverending Pursuit of Excellence
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Of all the inhabitants of Larnach Castle over the years only Larnach and the Purdies left their mark. But, the long periods of semi-neglect in the intervening years have meant little remains of their hard toil.
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1871 - 1898
From William Larnach we have the driveways, old dry stone walls, possibly part of a holly hedge and some large specimen trees, three of which are New Zealand natives (rimu, red beech, and northern rata). Then of course, there are the old out-buildings which you come across as you move around the grounds - the Creamery, Methane Gas Plant, Vinery, and the historic Stables.
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1927 - 1939
Mrs Purdie was an avid gardener, clearing and tidying the grounds after its period of non-habitation. All that is left today of her work are the bones of a rockery (the Lost Rock Garden today), a fountain in the Raised Lawn, the glass Cupola, and the two yew trees on the ballroom lawn.
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1967 - Today
While the Castle and out-buildings have largely been William Larnach's creation and legacy, the last 40 years of gardens have been Margaret's creation.
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Please remember that the restoration and ongoing development of the Castle, Gardens and Grounds have only been made possible through the admission fee visitors have paid through the years.
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An example of a garden developing over time...
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