The gardens were born in 1987 following the Great Storm. Prior to that they had been a poplar plantation and livestock meadow.  Today there are four and a half acres of gardens with island beds and borders, ponds, streams and wild areas, with specimen trees set in grass.  

The plantings are the result of a lifetimes collecting by Valerie Alston, and the size of the garden has enabled her to plant in groups which make for spectacular display.  Colour, size of plant and shape have been important factors in the design, as has the aim of colour in all seasons.  

The wide expanses give a feeling of calm and relaxation while the individual plants and bulbs are of great interest to the plantsman.

The old converted farm buildings within the grounds are also home to Alby Crafts, a wonderful collection of working studios, tearooms, a vibrant display of art and crafts in the gallery, and various shops.