GREEN-fingered residents who might want to view a prison garden without being arrested, tried and convicted, should head for HMP Hewell tomorrow (Saturday) and Sunday (May 7).
The weekend offers a great chance to see historical grounds and gardens not normally open to the public including an 18th century landscaped park and lake created by Lancelot Brown and modified around 1812 by Humphery Repton.
The opening is part of the National Garden Scheme which supports charities like the Queen’s Nursing Institute, Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK, Carers Trust, Perennial, Parkinson’s UK and MS Society.
However just like no-one can just wander out of a prison, no-one can just wander in either – so those wanting to go need to book a place in advance and can then be part of a conducted tour of the grounds.
Although not a flower garden as such, there are rhododendrons and azaleas, a rock garden, mature woodland plus a formal garden, lake and Repton bridge. There is also the opportunity to enjoy the lakeside and bluebell walks.
Visitors will be escorted in small groups and the conducted tour may last more than 60 minutes so visitors must be able to walk for this length of time, and due to some uneven surfaces, sensible walking footwear is essential.
The gardens will be open and tours start between 10am and 4pm. Admission is by donations with a suggestion of £5 per adult. Home made teas will also be available.
Important Note – All visits must be booked prior to the date for security reasons. Email Roy Jones at [email protected] to request to join a tour.
