Westonbury Mill Water Gardens, Pembridge, Leominster, Herefordshire
It’s hard to imagine that Westonbury Mill Water Gardens was once just an old mill and 5 acres of surrounding land set around a brook. It is such a unique place and there can’t be anywhere else like it on earth – the love and imagination, the creativity and skill that have gone into creating these beautiful gardens is incredible.
A network of pathways lead you round and about, bridges criss-cross over streams and ponds, all with a colourful backdrop of moisture loving plants, mature shrubs and trees. Wander through the bog garden and beneath the rose-covered arch to the Cairn Garden where a fountain happily tinkles and the thatched African Summerhouse offers respite from the hot sun in the height of summer. Walk through a tunnel of giant gunnera over the leat and over the blue Monet Bridge above the lily pond; climb the spiral path to the top of the grass mound for the best views of the wild flower meadow and the gorgeous countryside beyond.
Marvel at the follies – and this is the thing, Westonbury Mill Water Gardens are such fun, which is why it’s a good place to visit when you’re on your family holiday in Herefordshire. See the water powered giant cuckoo clock and the stone tower where doves live and gargoyles spurt water from the top. Watch the reflections in the pond inside the glass bottle dome – a sure feat of architecture made using over 5,000 multi-coloured wine bottles. It’s all so clever, so inventive.
You might round off your trip with something to eat in the café where they serve tasty home cooked food - cakes, cream tea, quiche, salad, toasted sandwiches. Otherwise pootle down the road to Pembridge for a pub lunch at The New Inn.
Open: 1st April to 30th September 11.00am-5.00pm daily (booking advised for large groups).
T: 01544 388650 All information correct at the time of writing