Monty Don, the much-loved Gardeners’ World presenter, has lived in his stunning property, Longmeadow, for over 30 years, transforming it from a dilapidated ruin into the magnificent garden haven it is today. This picturesque house, located in the village of Ivington, Herefordshire, is nestled in one of the UK’s most beautiful regions, where the average home price in nearby Ivington has soared to £680,000.
A Transformative Journey
When Monty and his wife Sarah Erskine bought Longmeadow in 1991, the property was far from the idyllic home it is now. The Tudor house had no roof, no electricity, no running water, and lacked basic amenities like toilets. Monty has described it as a “ruin” in need of major restoration. It took the couple a decade to finish the repairs and bring the property to life, transforming the once-overgrown, wild field into one of the most celebrated gardens in the UK.
The Dream Garden
The garden itself is as much a testament to Monty’s skills as a gardener as it is to his vision for his home. What began as a two-acre field of grass, nettles, and brambles is now an expansive space that includes a vegetable patch, a cottage garden, a jewel garden, and even a paradise garden. Monty grows everything from crops to flowers in the greenhouse, further cementing his reputation as an expert gardener.
The property is also home to a wooden summerhouse, offering a peaceful retreat where Monty and Sarah can enjoy the surrounding beauty. For Monty, Longmeadow isn’t just a house; it’s a lifelong project, a place that holds memories and has been shaped by decades of dedication to both the land and his family.
A Family Home with Rich Memories
Monty shares Longmeadow with his wife, Sarah, a trained jeweller and architect, and their three children, Adam, Tom, and Freya, who grew up in the sprawling grounds before moving out. The couple also has two beloved dogs, a golden retriever named Ned and a Yorkshire terrier named Patti. The garden holds an especially sentimental place in Monty’s heart, with a coppice containing the graves of several cherished pets, including dogs and cats, each marked with a headstone. Monty has openly discussed how these animals became an integral part of the garden, their presence immortalized within the landscape they loved.
In his own words, Monty shared, “The coppice holds the graves, marked by headstones, of Beaufort, Red, Poppy and Barry, as well as the two cats Stimpy and Blue. They all enriched our lives immeasurably, and are now all a permanent part of the garden that they loved.” The deep bond he shares with both his family and his pets adds an emotional dimension to the stunning beauty of Longmeadow.
The Perfect Location
The village of Ivington, where Monty and Sarah have lived for over three decades, is located near Leominster, a market town in Herefordshire. The surrounding countryside is renowned for its views, historic landmarks, and breathtaking natural beauty, making it an ideal location for Monty to live and work. As Monty explained, “Remaining at Longmeadow, near where my beloved pets are buried, is a key reason I would never part with my home.”
Herefordshire itself is an area rich in history and natural wonders, making it an increasingly desirable place to live. With property prices on the rise, Monty’s home has become a part of a larger narrative about the region’s growing appeal. However, it’s not just about the house; it’s the lifestyle that comes with it, deeply rooted in nature and the peaceful surroundings that Monty has nurtured for decades.
A Legacy of Growth and Beauty
Monty’s life in Ivington has been a long journey of growth and transformation, both in his personal life and within the garden itself. As he continues to present Gardeners’ World, his viewers get a glimpse into the life he’s built at Longmeadow, a sanctuary that reflects his love for horticulture and his deep connection to nature. His home and garden stand as a legacy of his dedication, passion, and love for the land.
For Monty, the work he has put into Longmeadow isn’t just about creating beauty—it’s about building a home, a sanctuary, and a place where memories are made. As Monty once said, “The garden is not just a place to work; it’s a place to live.”
A Glimpse Into the Future
As Monty continues his journey, Longmeadow will undoubtedly remain an important part of his life and work. His future projects and gardening endeavors will only enhance the legacy he’s already created at Longmeadow, as he continues to share his wisdom and expertise with the world. With a garden that grows and evolves alongside him, Monty Don’s life at Longmeadow is a beautiful reminder that the most enduring creations are those that take time, love, and dedication to cultivate.
