29 October 2024
One that offers a beautiful window into a past life where herbaceous borders grow alongside rows of beautifully grown vegetables.
Historically, everything from gooseberries, raspberries, currants, strawberries and apples were grown within their walls and, when adventurous Victorians returned from their travels, they also became handy places to keep rare plants that would otherwise have suffered in the British climate. Pembrokeshire is home to some rather fine walled gardens, just waiting to be explored, brick by beautiful brick!
Upton Castle, Cosheston
The gardens here are all surrounded by an arboretum of rare trees, mainly planted in the 1920s and ’30s, and the walled garden is the only listed walled garden in Pembrokeshire that’s open to the public. Still being used in the traditional way, the acre and a half walled garden is home to an impressive vegetable patch, herb garden, cut flower bed and fruiting vines around the walls.
Definitely worth a visit for a glimpse of gardening history as well as the enviable horticulture.
Each summer Upton Castle runs a sculpture trail, the latest being ‘Coeden’ or ‘Amidst the Trees”, a diverse exhibition of contemporary sculpture and art exploring the complex relationship between trees and their part in our existence and imagery. Don't forget to pop in to the medieval chapel, featured on Time Team, containing ancient effigies while the woodland walks will lead you through stunning ancient trees, past the remains of medieval fish ponds and finally to the tidal estuary of the River Cleddau.
Lamphey Walled Garden, Lamphey
An understated beautiful walled garden within a 250 year old one-acre site in South Pembrokeshire with stunning views down to Swan Lake Bay and rolling farmland. Whether you're a plantsman or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this garden is a must-visit destination. Look out for their events on their Facebook page, which often include a traditional cream tea!
Stackpole Walled Gardens
With gardens dating back as far as 1770, the six-acre site has been returned to some of its former glory. Renowned for its fruit and vegetable growing you can now learn about the history of the gardens and its ongoing work in the visitor’s centre, and purchase some of the harvest and the plants in the garden shop.
You can also stop for a much-needed cup of tea at Cawdors tearooms, and taste some Pembrokeshire produce for yourself!
Colby Woodland Garden, Amroth
Nestled in the heart of a hidden valley, Colby hosts beautiful woodland walks and a wild meadow with a brook running through it, as well as more formal gardens. Its walled garden, sometimes home to four charming ducks, is separated into various areas to explore. Its Bothytearoom is really popular and serves freshly prepared food and excellent cakes (especially the cream teas!)
Scolton Manor Country Park, Haverfordwest
Located five miles north of Haverfordwest, the walled garden at Scolton Manor has undergone a massive transformation from its derelict state in 2013. The renovation of the garden walls and the Pineapple House has now been completed. The traditional Victorian garden has been planted with fruit trees and vines trained along the walls and the planting continues. The country park covers almost 60 acres of parkland and woodland plus the manor house is open to visitors. Finish the day in the tea rooms with tea and homemade cakes.
Hilton Court, Roch
Not so much of a walled garden but definitely worth a mention, Hilton Court boasts a geodesic solar dome that houses tropical plants all year round. Alongside traditional woodland, flower and water gardens, there’sa pottery on site, a café overlooking the gardens and restaurant in the courtyard. Look out for the bluebells at the end of April, beginning of May and the amazingly scented water hawthorn alongside the water lilies.
Picton Castle Gardens, Haverfordwest
A longstanding favourite, Picton sprawls over 40 acres, with woodland gardens and play areas for children. Its walled garden holds a tropical fernery, a fountain and an extensive herb garden with specimens from all over the world. Picton is the perfect place to take a picnic, but if that doesn’t take your fancy, Maria’s courtyard restaurant serves lunches and ice-cream to refresh after all that walking!
Spring is the perfect time to explore Pembrokeshire’s countryside as the hedgerows explode with colour. Here are our top 4 spring walks that take in our spectacular views and wildflowers.
