Derelict and overgrown this garden is now one of UK's finest

24 June 2024 , 11:16

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Aberglasney Gardens was abandoned for several years before its restoration (Image: Aberglasney Gardens)

Once a derelict and vandalised site, Carmarthenshire's Aberglasney Gardens has now transformed into one of the UK's most stunning gardens.

Aberglasney was brought back to life and opened its doors to the public 25 years ago, after being deserted for several years. Following years of vandalism and architectural theft, the property was bought by Aberglasney Restoration Trust, funded by an American benefactor, Frank Cabot.

The mansion and its surrounding gardens have a history that extends far beyond its years of abandonment, with references to 'nine green gardens' at Aberglasney in a medieval poem. The documented history of Aberglasney begins during the reign of Henry VIII.

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Over the last 500 years, the historic grade II* listed mansion at Aberglasney has been inhabited by many interesting figures including a renowned poet, artists and a bishop.

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However, following the breakup of the estate in 1955, it fell into disrepair, and the mansion was on the verge of collapse before being saved by the Aberglasney Restoration Trust in 1995, reports Wales Online.

Aberglasney is still undergoing restoration work (Western Mail)

The restoration project was the brainchild of William Wilkins CBE, founder of the Welsh Historic Gardens Trust, who supervised the master plan for the restoration and re-creation of the gardens and the mansion.

Finally, on July 4, 1999, Aberglasney opened to the public, and restoration work has continued since then.

The gardens have now been open to the public for 25 years (Aberglasney Gardens)

Aberglasney's director of operations, Jim Stribling, shared his enthusiasm about the ongoing developments, he said: "This year is an exciting one for the future of Aberglasney. Work will start later this year to replace the terrace marquee of the Tearooms with a permanent dining area overlooking the pool garden, allowing for year-round enjoyment, whatever the weather.

"Work has also started on Allt Aberglasney, the woodland area adjacent to the gardens. Access is being improved and forestry work done to beautify and make the site safe for future access. Pathways and sympathetic plantings are planned, adding a new dimension to the Aberglasney experience."

To celebrate its 25th anniversary, Aberglasney is hosting a special event on Thursday, July 4, and during the anniversary weekend of July 6 and 7, visitors can enter the gardens for the throwback price of £3.95, the same fee charged back in 1999.

Isobel Pankhurst