Welcome to the joys of nineteenth century gardening and design! The Victorians were masters of combining geometric formality and bright, formal, seasonal bedding to create lush, exuberant outdoor living spaces. This delightful book presents Victorian gardening style and design using beautiful landscapes lavish with carpet beds, topiary, statuary, sundials, marble and stone walkways, as well as classical architectural ruins, fountains, and pools. Many restorations and recreations of Victorian gardens are highlighted, including Osborne House, on the Isle of Wight (Queen Victoria's country home), Biddulph Grange in Staffordshire, and Down House in Kent (home to Charles Darwin). Authentic Victorian writings, design instructions, and illustrations guide the modern