THE BETH CHATTO PLANTS & GARDENS

Inspirational and educational Garden created by Beth Chatto. Pioneering a new way of planting Beth introduced the concept of 'the right plant in the right place' bringing ecology into garden design. Beth went on to write 8 immensely popular gardening books and won 10 consecutive Gold Medals at Chelsea Flower Show. 7 acres of garden, including Gravel Garden, Scree Garden, Water Garden and Woodland Garden and a further 10 acres of Nursery and stock beds where over 2000 varieties of plants are available to purchase (also available via mail-order online). The Gardens are open to visitors throughout the year with modern Tea Rooms serving a variety of home made food. What began as a small cottage industry in 1960 is now a thriving business employing up to 50 people during the summer. From an overgrown wasteland with poor gravel soil and boggy hollows, the Beth Chatto Gardens has been transformed into an inspirational informal garden. The world famous gravel garden of drought-loving plants gently descends into the dramatic water gardens where lush green growth creates a scene of harmony and tranquillity throughout the year. From late winter to early summer the woodland gardens are embroidered with gentle drifts of plants. The recently opened Willow Room overlooks the serene Water Garden is used for courses and workshops and is also available for private hire for corporate events, celebrations, weddings and wakes.