Westerham’s Hidden Garden Gems
Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th June 1 – 5pm
A walking trail round Westerham’s Hidden Garden Gems. Cream teas and ‘The Swinghearts’ musical entertainment in aid of
The Hospice in the Weald
The route covers much of the town, so you will enjoy an extended afternoon’s stroll round some of Westerham’s quirky and interesting private gardens:
For visitors arriving by car, we recommend parking at the Darent Carpark (the first 3 hours are free) and following the map.
Tickets:
£10 for garden trail, cream tea and entertainment or
£5 for garden only trail
£5 for tea only at Churchgate (from 2pm, pay on the door)
In advance from Hospice in the Weald Shop in Westerham High Street, ‘Chocs on The Green’, Wolfe Garage car showroom, Westerham Heights Garden Centre, Knights (Oxted Road) Garden Centre
OR on-line (small booking fee applies) here
OR ‘on the door’ in Quebec Square (opposite Quebec House (N.T.)
Proceeds to Hospice in the Weald, and any extra donations are welcome!
Entry by ticket only. The trail route visits the following gardens:
Quebec Square
Once the area behind Westerham’s work house – now a tropical courtyard! Pause a while to remember the souls who have trod before you on this site in this haven of imaginative planting.
New Street
A tiny courtyard garden planted for our insect friends, with mixed borders and pots providing nectar over a long season – totally organic and wildlife friendly. And an oasis for humans, too!
Model Village Farley Nursery
Built in the early 1960s by local postman John Chilman, who constructed around two per year starting with the Tower and the Laundry Cottages. Working along the line of buildings towards the front wall is like a time-line, with those at the front wall dating from the mid – late 1960s. They were first displayed in the family’s front garden in Madan Road. The tradition has been upheld with the final building, St Mary’s Church built by John’s son-in-law Dave in 2013. Visit from the outside only.
Farley Allotments
These long established allotments have been enjoyed by many local people who have benefitted from the hard work, good friendly company and, of course, excellent fresh produce. In case this beautiful patch inspires you, there are allotments still available from the Council T: 01959 562147
Buckham Thorns Road
Venture up to the end of Buckham Thorns Road to discover a hidden delight – and be sure to check out the mouthwatering kitchen garden behind the house!
South Bank
A small cottage garden which has evolved from a children’s play and adventure territory, to a tranquil space to wander peacefully and find a corner to sit with a book. Expanding the colour palette, the result of an extra pair of hands recently, contributes to the attraction of this garden of rooms. Like all gardens it continues to grow.
The Green (Cream Teas from 2pm and musical entertainment from ‘The Swinghearts’ during the afternoon)
This old Inn’s gardens can tell a tale or two about Westerham’s history – see if you can identify what the holes in the wall were for – or wonder who lies in the unmarked grave the wrong side of the church wall….
Quebec Avenue Wood Sculptures
Mr Owl and the toadstools welcome visitors on their walk from the carpark up through the churchyard into town.The chainsaw carvings were made by Alasdair Craig at www.sussexchainsaw.com, from a fallen beech on the Squerryes estate. Before you leave the carpark, see if you can spot Mr Otter, who plays along the river bank, and Squirrel Nutkin who invites you to read the noticeboard. Keep checking back in Westerham for the appearance of more friends!
Darenth Gardens
Return to the Darent Car Park close by…..but come back soon!
The organisers and garden owners hope you enjoy discovering some of Westerham’s Hidden Garden Gems, but cannot be held responsible for any loss, injury or damage arising out of, or connected with the event. Everyone visiting any of the gardens does so at their own risk.
