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Highlights w/c September 2nd 2024
Cyclamen hederifolium is a very treasured plant here. Carolyn, who originally designed and planted the Garden, was given a selection of white and pink corms by her mother in 1968. Carolyn planted the white under the old Bramley tree and the pink under the magnificent oak tree, both situated in the Woodland Garden. The flowers are just emerging now and make a fine show.
Sadly both those women are no longer with us but these charming plants are a beautiful legacy.
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Open every Wednesday from 28 February until 23 October.
We are in the process of updating the website with details for 2024. You can close this popup and view the site but for the latest information please check back later.
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Bates Green Garden was designed and planted by the late Carolyn McCutchan over a period of many years from 1968. The tranquil 1.5-acre garden surrounds the farmhouse, which was originally a gamekeepers cottage built circa 1814. The 5.5-acre Wildflower Meadow with its mown paths and seating allows visitors to relax and observe the diversity of flora and fauna, and take in the views of the South Downs.
The soil is neutral pH heavy Weald clay.
This garden is most easily described as an English Garden planted in a naturalistic style. It sits comfortably within its rural surroundings and visitors can also explore the 24-acre ancient oak wood (outside bluebell season when the wood hosts the yearly Arlington Bluebell Walk).
Carolyn was an acclaimed Plantswoman and her garden has featured in publications such as The English Garden (March 2024), The Sunday Telegraph, Homes & Gardens, and Homes & Antiques to name but a few. Bates Green Garden attracted visitors from all around the globe and was annually opened for the NGS and various horticultural societies and groups.
Carolyn became unwell in 2012 and subsequently many parts of the garden became wild and neglected.
The Garden has now been restored, replenished and revitalized by Head Gardener Emma Reece who leads the enthusiastic Garden Team.
I was most fortunate to be a student of Carolyn’s in 2002 when I decided on a career change and joined the WRAGS scheme. Working as a student gardener at Bates Green was an excellent training for me as Carolyn was both knowledgeable and meticulous. I then went on to have a fulfilling career mainly in the heritage sector of the horticultural industry.
Emma
In 2021 we opened the garden once again to visitors for the first time in 6 years. You can visit every Wednesday and Saturday between February and October. (See top of page for exact dates.) You also have the opportunity to explore Beatons Wood (springtime home of the famous Bluebell Walk). During the Bluebell Walk the garden is open daily. Enjoy refreshments during your visit at Bates Green Garden Café. We also run a series of workshops.
You can find more details on the Plan Your Visit page .
As a Friend of Arlington Bluebell Walk and Bates Green Garden you can visit both the garden and wood free of charge on any day that the garden is open. This includes the Bluebell Walk and Farm Trails during the bluebell season. Up to two additional visitors can accompany you at half price. Full details and a sign up form are available on the Friends page.
Our contact details can be found at the bottom of every page of this website. If you would like to receive our monthly Bates Green Garden and Bluebell Walk newsletter containing behind the scenes stories, news and updates about events please sign up using the form on our bluebellwalk website.
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