Beth Chatto Gardens (EHER 82870)

A series of informal gardens of 7 acres (2.83ha), developed from 1960 onwards, with additions and alterations in the late 20 and early 21st century, all by Beth Chatto OBE VMH, one of the most influential horticulturists of the post-war era.

August 2020. Grade II listed. A series of informal gardens of 7 acres (2.83ha), developed from 1960 onwards, with additions and alterations in the late 20 and early 21st century, all by Beth Chatto OBE VMH, one of the most influential horticulturists of the post-war era. It comprises a series of informal gardens, roughly 'L-shaped' on plan, with stock beds to the north-west and east respectively, and a large nursery at the centre of the site making, along with a visitor car park to the north. The garden, originally approached from White Barn House, is now a visitor attraction and is entered from the south side of the A133 Clacton Road. White Barn House (EHER 82871), built in 1960 to a design by Bryan Thomas of Colchester, stands at the centre of the site, at the top of a sloping bank. The Beth Chatto Gardens were designed to be enjoyed as a series of contrasting informal gardens using plants adapted to, and in harmony with, local conditions. A network of paths, including formal walks close to the house and informal grass walks deep in the garden, give access to the vast array of plants, shrubs and trees. The gardens, which lie to the north, north-east, west, south-west, south-east of White Barn House, are divided into a series of named gardens including: the Gravel Garden; the Water Garden; the Long Shady Walk; the Reservoir Garden Woodland Garden; and the Scree Garden. They all deal with challenging soils and aspectS. <1>