Nestled along Hampshire's picturesque coastline, Lepe House stands as a testament to history and horticulture intertwined. Once a favored haunt of smugglers and sailors, this coastal gem now hosts a garden that blends pre- and interwar plantings with modern botanical marvels. George Plumptre's visit to Lepe House provides a glimpse into its captivating journey.
Originally acquired by John and Emily Jane Forster in 1880 as part of the Exbury estate, Lepe House emerged from the shadows of its smuggling past. The Forsters, inspired by Edwardian optimism, transformed the former Ship Inn into a dower house overlooking the Solent. Despite challenges posed by its coastal position, the Forsters embarked on creating a garden that mirrored their adventurous spirit.
The garden's evolution unfolded under the stewardship of Harry and Rachel Forster, who expanded it amid the backdrop of the First World War. Tragedy struck with the loss of their sons during the war, leading them to sell the Exbury estate but retain Lepe as their cherished home. Throughout subsequent decades, including Harry Forster's tenure as Governor General of Australia, the garden flourished, anchored by landmarks like the spectacular rock garden and sheltering holm oaks.
During World War II, Lepe House assumed a pivotal role in military operations, serving as a base for planning the D-Day landings. Its strategic location facilitated naval preparations crucial to Allied efforts, a legacy immortalized in Nevil Shute's wartime classic, Requiem for a Wren.
Post-war, Dorothy Forster continued the family legacy, maintaining the garden until her passing in 1983. Today, Emma Page, great-granddaughter of the original owners, oversees Lepe House and its expansive 14-acre garden. Collaborating with head gardener Caspar Todd, she balances conservation with innovation, restoring the rock garden and enhancing its coastal flora amidst the Solent's salt-laden gales.
Visitors to Lepe House marvel at its diverse landscapes—from the columbary walk shaded by ancient holm oaks to the formal Edwardian sunken gardens ablaze with Lychnis coronaria in summer. The garden's rejuvenation reflects Mrs. Page's dedication to preserving familial heritage while embracing sustainable gardening practices.
Lepe House remains a sanctuary of history and natural beauty, offering sun-drenched views across azure seas to the Isle of Wight's Needles. Its ongoing evolution underscores a commitment to heritage conservation and botanical excellence, ensuring that future generations continue to cherish this coastal haven.
