Open:

Sunday 10:00–17:00

Description:

These spectacular 17th-century walled gardens are newly presented as part of the £12 million restoration of the historic landscape surrounding Chiswick House.

The 2.5-acre gardens were created in 1682 by Sir Stephen Fox, Paymaster General of the Armed Forces and Samuel Pepys' employer. In the early 19th century the gardens were incorporated into the 6th Duke of Devonshire's estate at Chiswick House. What had begun as a fashionable 'wilderness' of shrubs and specimen plants evolved into a productive garden, finally falling into decay in the latter part of the 20th century.

Kitchen gardening was revived in the walled gardens in 2005 by a creative band of local volunteers, who initiated a popular community garden project, renewing interest and activity in this long-neglected part of Chiswick House Gardens.

Now under the umbrella of Chiswick House and Gardens Trust, restoration works based on documentary research and archaeological evidence have transformed the gardens. The northern walled garden has been turned from an abandoned modern nursery into a spectacular cherry orchard: lost paths have been reinstated and over 240 historic fruit trees and soft fruits planted by volunteers. Herb, flower and vegetable beds add to the beauty of the gardens, which are reached via the newly restored Italian Garden and splendid 300ft conservatory.

Activities:

Special tours of the restored walled gardens and conservatory at 11am and 2pm. Children’s art, entertainment and gardening activities.

Entrance:

Via the Conservatory
Nearest postcode: W4 2QN

Buses:

E3, 190

Stations:

Turnham Green, Chiswick

Access:

The paths in the walled garden are laid with gravel.

Dogs:

Dogs on leads

Further information:

• Street Map
• Map of nearby gardens
• Visitors' comments
• Garden's web site
• Printable version