A framework of some kind is required - perhaps just free standing shrubs, in a row or a curve, or a hedge, but nothing that gets too wide, so perhaps columnar shaped things would be best. Otherwise how about rigid trellis fencing panels, 6 x 6 feet - these are pretty open and you could grow climbers up them. Be easier if you had a photograph you could post...

you could even put some nice arches within the trellis idea of bamboos.you can grow living arches like climbing roses or if far enough away from houses willow arch.a big mirror in one or to would look realy nice to i think.stagger a few small trees either side of the path to keep that informal look.you could tuck a nice double seat between to nice shrubs further up the end.maybe a couple of pagodas going across the path with climbers in a couple of places.it mite even be nice to divide subtly your own garden lenght wise at the same time like across ways.so you dont realy know how many smaller gardens there are.give it the idea of being lots of little themed gardens.anyway theres a few ideas take care bye for now .

thanks very much, defiantely things to think about!

your more than welcome claire .im not saying im an expert but i just love garden design and i think i have an eye for it.if you look at my garden you mite get some ideas on my blogs.take care bye for now.