In the open countryside just outside Maldon, down by the River Chelmer, stands Beeleigh Abbey, one of the most ancient continuously inhabited buildings in England. This private house is immediately surrounded by three acres of stunning gardens which are now open to the public usually twice a month during the summer months by kind permission of the owners, Christopher and Catherine Foyle.
There is free parking, light lunches, refreshments, toilets, and the grounds are mainly accessible for wheelchair use with gravel paths and gentle slopes.
Within the protection of the surrounding mature trees, the gardens themselves are divided into a wealth of different interesting smaller gardens, including formal rose beds, a cottage garden, meadow, soft fruit and orchard, vegetable and cut flower beds, a stumpery, scented walks, a wisteria walk, and shaded walks down o the river. The mixed beds beside the huge lawn behind the house are over 80m long, and there are several ponds including the largest, with fountains, where the abbey church once stood. Refreshments can be taken in the marquee beside the lawn, and there are many benches throughout the garden for those who wish to savour the peaceful beauty of the gardens and river.
Prices
Adults £4, children aged 5-16 years old £2, under 5s free, Season ticket £24
Opening details
Season Dates and Opening Hours
| Season Dates |
Opening Hours |
| Notes |
Saturday April 13th Friday April 26th BH Monday May 6th Spring BH Monday 27th May Friday 7th June Saturday 22nd June Friday 5th July Saturday 20th July Friday 2nd August Friday 16th August Friday 30th August Friday 6th September Friday 27th September Open 10.30am - 4.30pm, Last admission 3.30pm |
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