Relaxing...high above the city (the Bishop's Garden)

At the highest point in Washington, Mount Saint Alban, on the grounds of the National Cathedral, is a hidden gem known as the Bishop's Garden. While only three acres, and a few feet from the intersection of Wisconsin and Cathedral Avenues, this verdant space seems miles away from the fuss of the city.
On the other side of the gate is a spacious area, perfect for reflecting, quiet rendezvous, etc.:


An even more intimate public spot awaits the other side of the open area, the gazebo:




The gazebo is an informal border between the open area and the smaller, yet interest packed, garden itself, which is patterned after a monastery garden in the English fashion.

Naturally, this means there are quite a few types, and colors, of roses in a relatively small area, even on a crisp November day:





as well as other traditional English flowers, such as the foxglove.

At the margins of the garden are interspersed various religious carvings:

And items such as a replica of a medieval baptismal font, surrounded by rosemary:


Speaking of herbs, they're here in abundance--sage, thyme, lavender, and of course, rosemary...





Last, but not least, the Herb Cottage...

All this herb gazing when done viewing the garden means it's time to visit The Herb Cottage as a last stop before heading out. The cottage, outside and in, is as quaint as you'd imagine.

Don't let the cuteness fool you--this is a great place to pick up inexpensive garden and herb gifts.




Some products are even produced especially for the Herb Cottage, such as many of the jams and preserves seen above. I had to get a couple of items, under the rubric that I needed them, which was somewhat true--I was running low on coriander, so I purchased whole coriander seed, as well as hard mill soap, both under the Bishop Garden label. (Can I call it a brand?) And even had a couple of bucks over from a $10 bill after the purchase. Shockingly, I didn't buy any of the tea there, some of which is served at the Cathedral's tour and tea. (Then again, I haven't taken that tour. Yet.)