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Discover one of Bristol's secret gardens

Press release issued: 12 April 2007

One of Bristol’s best-known 18th-century formal gardens, located in the heart of Clifton, will be opening its doors to the public on Sunday, 29 April. Bristol University’s Goldney Hall boasts ten acres of English Heritage-listed formal and wild gardens, designed and laid out in 1714 by Thomas Goldney III.

One of Bristol’s best-known 18th-century formal gardens, located in the heart of Clifton, will be opening its doors to the public on Sunday, 29 April.  Bristol University’s Goldney Hall boasts ten acres of English Heritage-listed formal and wild gardens, designed and laid out in 1714 by Thomas Goldney III.

The gardens have been restored to the spirit of Thomas Goldney’s original design. The shell-lined grotto, a Grade I-listed building, is widely valued for its unusual atmosphere and construction. 

The gardens have other follies, such as a bastion, an ornamental canal, a gothic tower and a rotunda. The open day will run from 2 pm to 6 pm. Tickets will be available on the door and will be priced at £3 for adults (concessions £1.50 and children under five free). Proceeds from the open day will go to the Goldney Restoration Fund.

There will be a plant sale with gardening advice from Goldney’s gardeners together with a treasure trail and 18th century-seed sewing for children.  Cream teas, homemade cakes and other refreshments will be served in the Orangery, which overlooks the ornamental canal and formal gardens.

The Hall is frequently used as a film location and has appeared in the acclaimed British film Truly, Madly, Deeply, as well as the BBC’s Chronicles of Narnia, The House of Eliott and Berkeley Square.

Professor Gregor McLennan, Warden of Goldney Hall, said: “Goldney has a fascinating history and is situated in delightful surroundings. We are very pleased to welcome the public to our open day.”

Goldney Hall is located on Lower Clifton Hill, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1BH.

 

Further information

Please contact Natalie Parsons for further information.
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