Visit A Wildlife Friendly Garden this summer.
Since 2006, some of our members have volunteered to open their gardens in aid of the Trust, for the enjoyment of visitors. Since the start of the scheme over £6000 has been raised and the Trust is extremely grateful to both the gardeners and visitors for their generosity.
> Click here for more information about the Open Garden Scheme.
Kingsthorne
Mr. and Mrs. Philpott, Kingsthorne, tel. 01981 540614
Description: In this two acre garden the organic meadowlands, ponds, shrubs, copse and flower beds have been created and are managed with wildlife in mind and the loudest sounds are the calls of the birds. Accompanied children are welcome as are dogs on leads, and there are garden benches for those who would just like to sit.
Opening times: April to September (by appointment only)
Admission: No entry fee but donations are welcome.
Directions: Please call for more information.
The Corn Mill
Mrs. Jill Hunter, The Corn Mill, Aston Crews, Ross on Wye, HR9 7LW
Description: Surrounding the award winning converted 18thC mill the valley garden has been designed to merge into the surrounding fields. Massed banks and borders provide colour all year while streams, ponds, meadows and native trees are a haven for wildlife. More than 60 species of birds have been listed. Wild daffodils, common spotted orchids and primulae are spring highlights. Take tea on the terrace and enjoy the 'oasis of calm and beauty'. Children’s trail, teas. Limited wheelchair access.
Opening times: Friday 7th May, Friday 4th June, Sunday 6th June, Friday 2nd July, 2.00 – 5.00 p.m.
Admission: £2.50. Children free. Dogs allowed on leads.
Directions: Five miles east of Ross-on-Wye on A40 Ross to Gloucester. Turn left at traffic lights at Lea crossroads onto B4222 signed Newent. Garden is half mile on left. Map 162, grid ref. SO 668 234.
> Google maps.
Images: Click to enlarge.
Coughton Forge
Mr and Mrs Wilkinson, Coughton Forge, Coughton, Ross on Wye, HR9 5SF.
Description: This garden, which covers about one and a half acres overall, contains many mature trees, both native and ornamental, shrubs, lawns and flower beds, plus fruit and vegetables and also a pond. Wildlife corridors surround a small paddock and there is a small copse bordered by a stream.
Opening times: Sunday 6th June, 11.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.
Admission: Entry £3.00, Children under 16 free. Wheelchair access.
Directions: 2 miles south of Ross on B4234. At Walford turn left towards Hope Mansell and the garden is half a mile on the right. SO601211.
> Google maps.
Images: Click to enlarge.
Herefordshire MIND Day Centre
Herefordshire MIND Day Centre, Heffernan House, 130-132, Widemarsh Street, Hereford, HR4 9HN.
Description: A small city garden, originally designed by Monty Don. One of the few green spaces in the area, designed to attract birds. Raised plots contain a bog garden, a pond and herbs, salads and produce for use at the Centre. Trees and shrubs blanket the noise of the busy street just a few yards away.
Opening times: Monday 6th September, 1.00- 3.00 p.m.
Admission: Entry £1.00.
Directions: The centre is on the right side of Widemarsh Street as you leave the city (next door to the Antiques Centre). No parking, but it is within walking distance of car parks.
> Google maps.
