What makes Crickhowell Open Gardens so special every year are the panoramic views that visitors are able to enjoy from a range of gardens.
There is also a host of very lovely secret cottage gardens which are only accessible on Open Gardens days. But what makes Crickhowell Open Gardens so unique this year is the fact that Saturday 11th June is also the official birthday of her Majesty the Queen.
Crickhowell Open Gardens will be open on Saturday 11 and Sunday, 12 June.
Over 20 different gardens are entered again this year. They vary not only in size but also in plant selection, layout and design, depending on the motivation, ambition and imagination of the garden owners. Some are long-established, others were only created a few years ago. Some have special motifs, for example the wildlife-friendly garden with a hedgehog house, or the one with the living garden shed roof.
And – as it is the Queen’s official birthday – there will be another special feature on the Saturday: Lynne Allbutt, local gardening expert, author and newspaper columnist will be holding two question-and-answer sessions: one at 11:30am and another at 3pm. Anything you have ever wanted to know about gardening and about solving specific garden problems: this is the time to ask and discuss. The sessions will be free for Open Garden ticket holders, £2 for non-ticket holders.
Not all gardens will be accessible to wheelchair users: those that are will be clearly specified in the programme. Although Crickhowell is a small town, it can be quite exhausting to walk uphill and downhill all the time from garden to garden. A free shuttle bus is therefore available, which visitors can board at particular ‘bus stops’ throughout the town – or simply by waving at the driver with their ticket!
Some garden owners will be offering refreshments with proceeds going to their chosen charity. In addition, Crickhowell boasts plenty of hotels, pubs, and cafés to serve any appetite and taste.
The gardens will be open from 11 am to 5 pm on the two days. Tickets giving all details of the gardens will be sold at Crickhowell’s Market Hall from 10:30am to 4pm on both days. Admission is £5 for one day, and £7.50 for two days. Free parking is available. Disabled parking spaces can be found in the main town car park (parking charges apply).
Crickhowell Open Gardens is organised for the benefit of the community. Funds raised will be used to support local good causes.
Any enquiries: email crickhowellopengardens@gmail.com (or visit www.crickhowellopengardens.btck.co.uk) or telephone 01873 811146.
Every garden will look its best – fit for a queen. – Let’s hope the weather will be royal as well for a great day out!
Carmen Dietz