Berkshire
Gardens Trust
Reg.Charity No.1201501

We are very pleased to invite you to join us in a privately arranged visit to the parks and gardens at Englefield House, led by the Head Gardener, Sue Broughton. 

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The origins of the garden at Englefield date back over 400 years.

An inscription on a stone staircase on the upper terrace reads, ‘If you help towards Englefield Garden either in flowers or invention you shall be welcome thither,’ a phrase taken from a letter by the occupier Edward Norris dated 1601. The lower terrace was redesigned in 1974 by the American landscape architect Lanning Roper.

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You will see Italian craftsman built stone balustrades and staircases built in the 1860’s, a woodland thinned from a forest in 1936 and a stream constructed at the same time.

In September, October and November as the season changes the oaks, maples, liquidambar and other deciduous trees provide a riot of autumn colour which is just magnificent.  Additionally, at this time of year Aconitum and Symphotricum (formerly known as Asters) bloom in our box borders and beds on the west lawn terrace. While Skimmia, Hydrangeas, Cyclamen hederifolium can all be found in woodland areas.

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At this time of year, the kitchen garden is winding down.  However, the apple espaliers are still laden with various ripening fruit ready to be picked and processed. The wall tree fruit creates an interesting visual with the fan shapes and up until the first frosts there will still be roses and flowers in the cutting garden.

Our private visit will include:
•    1.30 - arrival at the kitchen garden
•    1.30 - walk around kitchen garden
•    2.00 - move to main garden (walk for those able, drive if preferred)
•    2.30 - tour of main garden
•    3.30 - tea & cake in the Long Gallery 
•    4.30-6.00 anyone that wishes to may stay on in the main garden unaccompanied.
 

Booking: Tickets are £18 for BGT members and £20 for non-members.  

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There is a maximum number of 30 people for this event. Early booking is highly recommended. Booking will close on 1 September 2023.

 

Accessibility:

Englefield House is accessed off the A340 between Theale to the south and Tidmarsh to the north.  Detailed directions will be sent to attendees on booking.  

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Unfortunately, wheelchair access is limited.   The lower terrace is not accessible but the middle terrace and the woodland are accessible on dry days.  However, if it has been wet these would be difficult.

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Please let Kim know at BerksGTmembership@gmail.com if you think you may have access difficulties or dietry restrictions.