Fred Siriex and His New Love of Gardening

11th Dec 2025
Fred Siriex Finds a New Passion in the Garden Inspired by comments shared in his recent Country Life interview, Fred Siriex has revealed a new creative outlet that is far removed from the bright lights of television studios and Michelin-starred dining rooms. Gardening has become one of his greatest joys, and his enthusiasm for his newly redesigned outdoor space offers a fascinating glimpse into a softer, grounded side of the famously energetic host. The Excitement of a Freshly Redesigned Garden In the original Country Life feature, Siriex mentioned that his garden had been completed only the day before his interview. The timing could not have been more appropriate, as he described the transformation with a mix of excitement and reflective pride. For Siriex, a freshly finished garden is less an endpoint and more the beginning of a new cycle of ideas. Even as he admired the space, he admitted he was already considering what changes he might make the following year. This sense of forward momentum, combined with his natural enthusiasm, reveals just how deeply he has connected with the process of shaping and nurturing his home environment. How Hospitality Skills Translate to Gardening Siriex has spent decades mastering the details of hospitality, from his early days in some of London’s most prestigious restaurants to his televised career on First Dates and Gordon, Gino and Fred’s Road Trip. The precision, care and vision required in those roles translate seamlessly to gardening. A garden requires an eye for detail, an understanding of atmosphere, and a commitment to long-term growth. These qualities reflect the same values that made Siriex a standout figure in his industry. In hospitality, he learned to curate experiences for others. In the garden, he curates experiences for himself and the people he welcomes into his home. The layout, the planting choices, the overall energy of the space, all reflect a desire to create something meaningful, inviting and personal. French Roots and the Art of Creating Beautiful Spaces The Country Life profile touched on Siriex’s French upbringing, characterised by parents who loved entertaining and creating warm, welcoming environments. Those early memories have clearly influenced him throughout his life. It is no surprise that he now brings that same sensibility to his outdoor space. A garden becomes an extension of his upbringing, a place where beauty, comfort and conviviality come together. Siriex has always embraced the cultural differences between France and the United Kingdom. His move to Britain in the early 1990s inspired his career, broadened his experiences and deepened his appreciation for both cultures. His garden reflects this blend as well. There is a sense of French appreciation for elegance and simplicity, combined with a British love of seasonal planting and comfortable outdoor living. A New Chapter and a Place for Reflection Now in his fifties, with a dynamic career and a family he adores, Siriex’s deepening interest in gardening represents a shift toward a more reflective lifestyle. The garden offers him a place to slow down after years of fast-paced work, travel and filming. It is a sanctuary where he can disconnect from the demands of his public life and reconnect with nature, creativity and stillness. Gardening offers a unique kind of satisfaction. It is physical yet calming, structured yet full of surprises. For someone with Siriex’s ambition and drive, it provides a purposeful project that continues to grow and evolve. It allows him to plan for the future while appreciating the present moment. In many ways, his new garden mirrors his personal growth and marks a meaningful new chapter in his home life. Why His Gardening Journey Resonates with the Public The idea of Fred Siriex becoming deeply attached to his garden has captured the interest of readers because it feels genuine, grounded and relatable. Many people have discovered gardening later in life, often as a way to find balance, creativity and a sense of peace. His enthusiasm reflects a wider cultural shift toward reconnecting with home spaces and valuing the restorative power of nature. His passion also demonstrates that no matter how busy or public one’s life becomes, there is always room to cultivate something personal and meaningful. Fred Siriex’s gardening journey, sparked by the redesign of his outdoor space and highlighted in his Country Life interview, continues to inspire people who are seeking their own sanctuary at home.