CHARLES QUEST-RITSON
CHARLES QUEST-RITSON
is an outstanding linguist, with particular expertise in European gardens, history and culture. A witty speaker with a wonderful turn of phrase, he offers rich and amusing insights into the machinations of European family dynasties that have long dominated garden-making.
Quest-Ritson has written many successful books, for example, The English Garden Abroad; Gardens of Germany; The RHS Garden Finder, The RHS Encyclopedia of Roses and Olive Oil! He is a distinguished rosarian, lecturer, translator, former nurseryman and, originally, a lawyer.
With his background in European history, Quest-Ritson brings much colour and depth to his work. He has remarked that designers have done little to bring about the major changes in garden design—it is more often the case ‘that social changes are at work’ (see his, The English Garden: A Social History). He has recently completed the Gardens of Europe: The Traveller’s Guide, a monumental survey including over 600 gardens.
Quest-Ritson works in partnership with his wife, Brigid. They divide their living time between the cathedral city of Salisbury and Amfreville, France.