A historic private garden in Norwich has welcomed a new head gardener.

Tom Halliburton is now at the helm of the magnificent four acres surrounding the Bishop of Norwich’s residence.

Housing foliage from around the globe, the area boasts stunning flower borders backed by meticulously trimmed yew trees, and an abundant fruit and vegetable plot, among other features.

Mr Halliburton said: “It’s a hidden gem in the middle of Norwich.

The gardens are open in aid of specially-selected local charities on some summer Sundays The gardens are open in aid of specially-selected local charities on some summer Sundays (Image: Luke Bryant)

“I didn’t even know it was here.

"It’s very calming and peaceful – but also a place to work hard too."

He is particularly fond of working in such a historical setting which is steeped in centuries of history.

Mr Halliburton is now part of a nine-century long tradition of garden enthusiasts who have tended this land, cultivating food and medicines along the way.

The present Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham Usher, greatly supports the use of organic methods in maintaining the garden.

Tom Halliburton tasked with tending Norwich's oldest garden Tom Halliburton tasked with tending Norwich's oldest garden (Image: Luke Bryant)

Mr Halliburton, who had a career spanning landscape gardening before this role, gets assistance from the Beekeeper Bishop himself along with part-time helper Victoria Bleksley and volunteers.

Important flora in the garden includes a hebe grown from a cutting of Queen Victoria’s own wedding bouquet and Norfolk's largest tulip tree.

Mr Halliburton hopes to grow the volunteer group and relishes showing others around the estate.

His domain includes exotic jungle plants from around the world, dramatic flower-filled double borders and more His domain includes exotic jungle plants from around the world, dramatic flower-filled double borders and more (Image: Luke Bryant)

The garden offers volunteers a chance to broaden their horticultural skills while connecting with nature.

Behind the home where he lives with family, Mr Halliburton maintains his personal garden, filled with vegetables and fruit trees.

Bishop’s House Garden, operated with an organic ethos, opens to the public in support of select local charities on September 11 and 12.

Prospective volunteers for the garden crew or private tour groups can reach out via email.