The heatwave abated just a bit, so conditions were ideal for the Winchelsea’s big Open Garden weekend. The ancient town tripled its population, as well over 900 visitors came on Saturday 18 July to enjoy the 11 gardens that were on display for the National Garden Scheme.
Particular attractions were Periteau House and Cleveland House, two large gardens that had been the mainstay of the opening for many years, re-worked by new owners and on view again after a break. Since the first Winchelsea opening in 1980, 50 different gardens have been part of the scheme, testimony to the role gardening plays in the life of the town.
The day raised a record £10,200 for charity, including £750 for Friary Gardeners. They are now based in Hastings but started out at Greyfriars in Winchelsea, offering horticultural training and greater independence to adults with a wide spectrum of learning difficulties in the Hastings and Rother area.
The gardens opened again on Sunday afternoon in support of the Friends of the Memorial Hospital in Rye, adding another £1,100 to the sum raised over the weekend.
Image Credits: David Page and Winchelsea Garden Owners .