The Beth Chatto Gardens began in 1960. From an overgrown wasteland with poor gravel soil and boggy hollows it has been transformed into an informal garden harmonising with the surrounding countryside.

Complementing the gardens is a large retail nursery producing a wide range of plants, the majority of which can be seen growing in the gardens. Coaches are welcome and our newly refurbished tearoom is now open, offering light refreshments.

The Beth Chatto Gardens began in 1960 when the site was an overgrown wasteland between two farms. Faced with all kinds of difficult conditions Beth and Andrew Chatto set out to find homes for many of the plants they wished to grow. With dry and damp soil in both sun and shade, they were able put into practice the underlying principles of what is now referred to as "Ecological gardening".

Accompanied children under 14 free. No other concessions. No dogs. Light refreshments are available in our newly refurbished tearoom. Available are hot and cold drinks, locally made cakes and ice creams and a small selection of filled rolls.

Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic to be eaten on benches situated in the grassed car park. Toilet facilities are available (including disabled). Except for exceptionally wet periods the garden is accessible for wheelchairs (not provided)

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Clacton-on-Sea, Essex The Sunshine Coast, has a long sandy beach, safe sea bathing, water sports, a pier with amusements and a great variety of Societies and clubs. Site maintained by Doug Carpenter