We are very pleased to invite you to join us in a privately arranged visit to Caversham Court.

The morning will start with a fascinating talk by Megan Aldrich, an architectural historian, on the architecture of Caversham Court and its setting in the historic village core of Caversham.

 

We will meet at the Reading Rowing Club, with their kind permission, for Megan’s talk, with refreshments as you arrive. The Club House sits across the river Thames opposite Caversham Court with fine views of the river and the gardens. We will then walk over Caversham Bridge to the gardens where we will be guided by Vickie Abel, Chair of the Friends of Caversham Court.

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Caversham Court is a Grade II Registered Park and Garden. We will explore the charming walled garden with terraced lawns leading down to the river Thames, the historic gazebo and historic remains, the many mature specimen trees including ancient yew, with flower borders and a lavender bank. The park is a Green Flag and Green Heritage award winner. The gardens are currently facing a number of conservation and restoration challenges, which will be discussed during the tour.

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​The history of Caversham Court dates back to the 12C when it was linked St Peter’s Church. The lovely gazebo (summerhouse) overlooking the Thames was built by 1663. The Loveday family who lived here between 1665 and 1799 planted the yew hedge along long walk. The Simonds family, Reading’s banking and brewing family, remodelled the house in the 19C, turning it into a splendid Gothic mansion (sadly demolished) leaving the beautiful gardens which opened to the public in 1934.

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​Our private visit will include: 

 

• Tea and coffee at the Reading Rowing Club House at 9.45am. Please ensure you let us know of any dietary requirements when booking.

• Talk from Megan Aldrich on the history of the Court at 10am • Walk across Caversham Bridge through Caversham Conservation Area to Caversham Court

• A guide tour of the gardens from 11.30am to 1.00pm

• The Tea Kiosk sells home-made cakes and biscuits, and hot and cold drinks in the gardens or you can visit one of the many cafes in Caversham village.

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Accessibility:​

​There is plenty of car parking at the Thameside Promenade Car Park RG1 8BD next to the Reading Rowing Club (4 hours £2.70; 5hrs £3.50) or you can park for free for up to 3 hours in the long stay next to the Waitrose Car Park in Caversham Village. Details of car parking and public transport will be sent out to those attending nearer the time. The walk from the Rowing Club to Caversham Court is 10 -15 minutes / 0.4mile.​​​​

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Booking:​​

Tickets are £15 for members and £18 for non-members.

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Book online here   or  download the pdf for details on booking by cheque or bacs.