Green Island Gardens is a stunning 20-acre garden and events venue located in Ardleigh near Colchester, Essex. Owned and professionally designed by Fiona Edmond, these private gardens are a true paradise for plant enthusiasts. The gardens are structured and meticulously laid out, showcasing a vast selection of unusual trees, shrubs, perennials, and bulbs.
Green Island Gardens has gained recognition and acclaim, having been featured in esteemed publications such as Country Living, The English Garden, and Great British Gardens. It has also been recommended by Essex Days Out and awarded the prestigious Travellers Choice on Tripadvisor in 2022. Furthermore, Green Island Gardens is honoured to become a partner garden of the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) in 2023.
The venue is open to the public on specific dates throughout the year. In 2023, it welcomes visitors from November 1st to December 16th, Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 4 pm. In 2024, the opening hours are as follows: January 16th to 31st, Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm; February 1st to October 31st, Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm; Sundays and Bank Holidays from 11 am to 4 pm.
While Green Island Gardens offers a serene retreat for visitors, it does not permit canine visitors, except assistance dogs.
RHS members enjoy free entry during specific periods, including November 1st, 2023, to April 15th, 2024, and November 1st to 31st, 2024 (excluding Sundays). Additionally, every Wednesday throughout the year offers free entry for RHS members. Gardeners World 2-for-1 Months in 2023 provide a special discount from September 1st to December 12th.
Green Island Gardens welcomes group visits throughout the year, catering to horticultural and social clubs. These groups can enjoy a delightful day out, but it is advisable to contact the venue in advance to ensure availability on the chosen date.
The admission prices for individuals visiting from January 10th to December 16th, 2023, are 9. 00 for adults and 2. 50 for children. For groups of 20 or more people, the admission price per person is 8.
50. Season tickets are also available, offering unlimited access to the gardens. These tickets can be purchased for different durations and purposes, including single tickets starting at 37, double tickets at 52 (holder plus guest), and family tickets from 42 (with an additional cost per named child).
In addition to the gardens, Green Island Gardens features a tea room and nursery. Gift vouchers are available for purchase, which can be redeemed for entry, season tickets, tearoom purchases, and nursery items.
Green Island Gardens recently garnered attention in “The Lady” magazine, where Fiona and her National Collections of Hamamelis and Autumn and Winter flowering Camellias were featured. This recognition highlights the important work that Fiona, as a collection holder, and Plant Heritage undertake in preserving and cultivating different plant species.
To give visitors a glimpse into the gardens, Fiona shares seasonal videos showcasing different aspects and providing gardening tips. These videos offer a valuable resource for gardeners of all levels of expertise.
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Green Island Gardens is a must-visit tourist attraction and wellness retreat in Colchester, providing a serene and picturesque haven for plant lovers, garden enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation in the beauty of nature.