The ethos of Arlington Bluebell Walk & Garden

Arlington Bluebell Walk was the idea of my late wife Carolyn, who opened Beatons Wood in 1972 to raise money for charity. It is an annual event open in early spring whilst the white wood anemones and bluebells are flowering. Volunteers from local charities supply the resources, by which they raise much needed funds for their particular charity. The event also provides the financial resources to ensure that Bates Green Garden is maintained to the high standard that Carolyn always aimed to achieve. Maintenance of this ancient wood is on-going, to ensure it continues to give immense pleasure to our many visitors, who enjoy walking round and witnessing the beauty of nature.

Bates Green Garden was designed and planted from 1968 by Carolyn, a skilled plantswoman, who for many years opened it on behalf of the National Garden Scheme. This large tranquil garden is unique in its selection of many unusual plants for their colour and distinctiveness. The garden is now cared for by Emma Reece the Head Gardener who many years ago was a student here learning under Carolyn. She has a small enthusiastic team who regularly welcome groups and garden enthusiasts, to share the appeal of this special garden. The Wildflower Meadow has been added, to enhance the appeal of this distinctive garden.

John McCutchan 2023