Clay soil is often seen as problematic, but it can be turned to your advantage with a bit of work and a prudent choice of plants.
Plants that will thrive in clay soil include roses, hydrangeas, viburnums, dogwoods, as well as perennials like Japanese anemones, brunnera and pulmonarias.
These plants will combine well to create a soft and luxuriant display and are not expensive or hard to get hold of plus you can plant them in spring, to enjoy in summer.