Garden Development 1982 - 1994
Following Robin's death Sybil continued to care for the garden which they'd created, and making what changes she felt were necessary, despite her advancing years. However by now she was suffering from arthritis, and friends pursuaded her to employ a gardener, Brian Noble, who helped her until her death in 1994 at the age of 86. In her final years she enjoyed showing the garden to visitors and opened it regularly for charity. In her will Sybil bequeathed York Gate to The Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Society (now known as Perennial) who continue to care for it.
In 1982, Brian Noble was employed as gardener.
After Robin's death, Sybil re-erected Robin's gate at the entrance to the Pinetum.
She had two stone pineapples carved based on this one in Grassington to top the pillars
The Pinetum looking towards Robin's Gate.
In 1982. Sybil and Brian, cleared away the vegetable garden, and created Sybil's Garden.
Sybil's Garden was based on Mrs Winthrop's garden at Hidcote.
The plan for Sybil's Garden
Sybil recorded the plants she bought for her garden in her plant record book
Sybil with visitors in the Orchard
Sybil achieved her long held ambition to have a Root House
The Root House in the Dell
Sybil Spencer 1908 - 1994