Gardens, like their owners, are not immortal. Slowly, over time, either nature reclaims its land or new gardeners impose their own ideas on them. So much so, over the decades and centuries the original garden is almost lost. But not quite. Buried deep beneath the undergrowth, new borders or forgotten land, lie the remains of the original garden. "Hidden Gardens", published to accompany the BBC series with Chris Beardshaw, describes the rediscovery, rebuilding and rejuvenation of six lost gardens: Lyveden New Bield, Aberglasney, St Fagans, Hidcote, The Gibbered Garden and Clynfw. Some lost since the 16th century, they are all of interest to garden historians and restoration specialists. Like treasure-hunters, they scour the local archives, dig deep in libraries and attics to try and discover original planting plans, seed and plant lists and personal recollections to assist in the recreation of these once great gardens. Penny David combines her love of history and gardening to give an interesting and informative insight into the restorer's work. Accompanied by colour photographs, garden plans and archive pictures and texts, she transfers her enthusiasm for the subject to the reader, ensuring many new visitors to these special gardens. - Lucy Watson
