The garden visits have proved so popular it is intended to open more often in 2010. Much work has been done in the last few years to give renewed life to prominent areas. Current projects underway include the Cottage Garden and additional planting in the area around the main pond and the beds nearest the tea marquee. Over time it is hoped visitors will not only be able to view the changing seasons, but also watch the gardens increase in interest whilst preserving the very special atmosphere of this place. You may even come across peacocks strolling around.
The Beeleigh Abbey Grounds The original abbey was founded in 1180 for white robed canons of the strict Premonstratensian order. The canons used the spring which still courses along the west side to the river Chelmer. The buildings were extensive and included a church where the largest pond now is and also a substantial settlement serving the abbey, as shown by recent excavation. A shrine containing the heart of Saint Roger Niger (who was born in Beeleigh and as Bishop of London witnessed Magna Carta being signed) brought many pilgrims here from 1241. With Henry VIII’s Reformation however much was destroyed, and even the first secular owner was beheaded in 1553 for supporting Lady Jane Grey. Re-used stonework is still found in the foundations of the garden walls, and as you can see the surviving buildings were incorporated into an early 17th century timber framed private house. The basic outline and main sections of the garden have not changed for over 200 years, except for the water features carried out 100 years ago, probably when Basil Ionides and Wykeham Chancellor were refurbishing the main house and the cottage by the front drive.
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Three acres of gardens provide a fine setting for the picturesque and historic The enthusiasm of the present owners, Christopher and Catherine Foyle, is equally matched by that of gardener Chris Cork and estate manager Ed Joslin, which explains the energy and resources recently invested in the garden. Suggestions for your walk round the gardens include the ROSE GARDEN: filled exclusively with David Austin’s old English roses (2008). MIXED BORDERS: as well as the far border nearest the lawn being refurbished (2007) a matching new border was created near the orchard (2008). Nearby are oak, ash, walnut and mulberry trees. OLD SCENTED WALK: honeysuckle, jasmine, mahonia and mock orange in front of a 17th century south facing wall. RIVER WALK: this section of the garden is where many bulbs appear in Spring. At the end is a bench which gives views over the River Chelmer and its wildlife |
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