Bequeathed to the townsfolk of Brightlingsea in 1927 by Captain Arthur Wenlock, Springmead Gardens was neglected until In 2001 members of Brightlingsea In Bloom secured funding of £78,000 to carry out the major restoration project.
Today this tranquil, one-acre oasis has matured beautifully, a sheltered dell with natural stream-fed stream and bog area planted with moisture-loving varieties including giant Gunnera. Bark paths meander around the upper shady areas. A large sunny border offers up a pot-pourri of delightful fragrances and on a secluded sunny bank, the Echiums grow to great heights. There’s a number of wood piles to provide a habitat for hedgehogs, amphibians and a wide variety of insects, while bird feeders, roosting and nesting boxes are erected around the garden.
Around the lawn are memorial seats where visitors can enjoy the many aspects of this unique garden.
Springmead Gardens is open daily except Christmas Day & New Year’s Day. From April to October: 9am to 6pm, October to March: 10am to dusk (may be closed occasionally for private functions). Admission free, no dogs (except guide dogs).
• Find Springmead Gardens at the junction between Ladysmith Avenue and Spring Chase. There are entrances in both roads.