Berkshire
Gardens Trust
Reg.Charity No.1201501
May Garden Visit
Visit to The Savill Garden
Nr Englefield Green, Egham, TW20 0UJ
Friday 12th MAY 2023 at 2pm
We are delighted to offer members this opportunity to re-visit The Savill Garden, part of The Great Park, Windsor.
Last autumn, when we visited, there were stunning Japanese maples which offered a tapestry of autumn tints. This spring 2023, we are on a return visit, when the gardens are alive with magnolias, azaleas and tulips, all in bloom, which provide a dramatic contrast to the autumnal scenes in 2022. These are beautifully designed gardens and woodlands which can be enjoyed by everyone who visits.
This unique garden was developed under Royal patronage dating back to George VI, then Duke of York, and The Savill Garden has been cared for and developed into the wonderful Garden we can visit this May. The new Ranger of Windsor Great Park, His Majesty The King, is already taking a keen interest in the development and care of Savill Garden.
Eric Savill was appointed as Deputy Surveyor in 1931, and began working on the Garden in the winter of 1932, with the support of George VI. From the original rhododendrons, camellias and azaleas planted by Eric Savill to the Queen Elizabeth rose, planted to mark Queen Elizabeth II becoming our longest-reigning monarch, The Savill Garden team continues to respect the traditions of the Garden whilst, every year, introducing new and exciting plantings and displays from around the world.
The Savill Building, where we shall initially assemble, was opened in 2006 by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh - Ranger of Windsor Great Park 1952 - 2021.
Our visit will be special as we shall be hosted by two of Savill Garden’s expert guides:
Sian Thomas and Liz Howells, who are also members of BGT. Following the tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the pleasant café, to purchase light refreshments at your leisure.
The cost of parking, in the car park adjacent to The Savill Garden Visitor Centre, will be included in the price of your ticket. There are cloakrooms on site, and there is also a gift shop with interesting gifts and a Plant Centre with lovely plants for sale.
Booking: Tickets are £15 for BGT members and £18 for non-members. If you are a member of the Friends of Savill Garden or Windsor Great Park, tickets are £5 for BGT members and £8 for non-members. Parking will be free for everyone – details to follow in the Joining Instructions.
There is a maximum number of 24 people for this event. Early booking is highly recommended.
Accessibility: All areas of the garden and Centre are accessible, including the well-appointed toilets. Please let Kim know at BerksGTmembership@gmail.com if you think you may have access difficulties.
Queries: Please contact Alison Mihail or Deborah James by email at BerksGTenquiries@gmail.com or Kim by email at BerksGTmembership@gmail.com. Telephone numbers, for last minute arrangements, will be provided to attendees in our Joining Instructions.