Beth Chatto Gardens |
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The Beth Chatto Gardens began in 1960. From an overgrown wasteland with poor gravel soil and boggy hollows, it has been transformed into an informal garden harmonising with the surrounding countryside.
In the gravel garden, areas have been filled with drought loving plants, emulating a winding dried-up river bed. Star performers include alliums providing jewel rich colours, whilst kniphofias, verbascums and flowering grasses add strong verticals amongst the bold groupings of ballota, lavandula and santolina.
The gentle descent into what was once a soggy hollow has now been turned into dramatic water gardens. Five large ponds were created where, from early summer until late autumn, the impact of lush green growth is almost overpowering. Huge upturned parasols of Gunnera tinctoria tower above a hundred shades of green, creating a scene of harmony and tranquillity.
In autumn tall grasses shimmer with ribbon-like leaves, punctuating this green landscape with their rich tones.
The woodland brings varying shades of colour in spring and autumn. Spring bulbs grow through varied foliage plants, illuminating the floor for weeks.
By mid-summer there is a wealth of different leaf patterns, while autumn brings colonies of Japanese anemonies and colchicums. Finally there are the reds, ambers and golds of falling leaves.
General Information:
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More Pictures (Click Photos for Gallery) |
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Opening Times
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(2011 times)
1st March to 31st October:Monday to Saturday 9.00am - 5.00pm, Sunday 10.00am - 5.00pm. 1st November to end February: Monday to Saturday 9.00am - 4.00pm, Sunday 10.00am - 4.00pm. |
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Admission Charges
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(2011 prices)
Entrance fee £6.00 per person. Accompanied children under 14yrs free.Groups of 25 and over £5.50 per person. |
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Directions
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| The Gardens are situated 6 miles east of Colchester, and a 1/4 mile east of Elmstead Market, on the A133 - please follow the brown tourist signs. |
| Show map of Beth Chatto Gardens... |
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Beth Chatto Gardens Postcode for SatNav: CO7 7DB |
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Nearby Attractions
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Bourne Mill
(5 Miles)*
The mill was originally built as a fishing lodge in 1591 and features stepped Dutch gables. It was converted in the 19th century to a mill for fulling (a process in cloth manufacture) and later flour milling. |
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Sir Alfred Munnings Art Museum
(5 Miles)*
Castle House and its Collection is a fitting memorial to Sir Alfred Munnings, KCVO, PRA, who lived at Castle House from 1919 until his death in 1959. |
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Flatford Bridge Cottage
(6 Miles)*
This thatched sixteenth century cottage is at the heart of Constable Country. It houses a display about the artist who features Bridge Cottage in several of his paintings. |
| more attractions in Colchester and things to do in Colchester ... |
| more things to do in Essex and days out in Essex... |
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Nearby Hotels
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Nearby Self Catering
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National Trust | Estate Agents |
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