Time & the tide have had a huge impact on one corner of Lympstone over the years. Come and see for yourself how the ‘Old Mussel Farm’ at Sowden End, built in the 1920s to save the village’s ailing shellfish industry, has been transformed from a derelict site into a wildlife friendly, family garden over the last 10 or so years.
On the 7th & 9th of June the Michelmore are opening their garden at The Lookout, Sowden Lane, Lympstone for the 6th year as part of the National Garden Scheme which raises millions annually for caring charities including Macmillan, Marie Curie and Help The Hospices.
Over 3000 people have visited the garden openings, helping to raise nearly £15,000. This has benefited both NGS charities & Lympstone fundraising. Jackie & Will hope to raise money for the Village Hall Refurbishment & Church Renovation Fund from their cream teas again this year.
Featured on TV & in the local press, this 2-acre garden sits with its toes in the water near the mouth of the Exe Estuary. Flotsam and jetsam finds sit amongst relaxed, naturalistic style seaside planting to give that washed up from the beach feel. Over 200 varieties of sea-trialled salt & drought tolerant plants enjoy the challenges of coastal living.
A short circular walk leads you from an area of jungly planting through a wild flower meadow, past a pond, through a copse and along the riverbank to a Mediterranean courtyard, with numerous places to stop and take in the views and salty air.
There are refreshments & plants on sale, a giant sandpit…with buckets & spades provided and a photographic display showing how the site has evolved from the 1920s to the present day. This year Love Local are presenting a range of coastally inspired, locally made gifts with a percentage of the takings going to support Devon Wildlife Trust’s Bee Campaign
Due to some narrow gravel paths, steep slopes and steps disabled access is limited and stout footwear recommended!
Adults £4, children free but must be closely supervised at all times. No car parking on site but in adjacent field if weather permits & plenty of bike parking. Sorry no dogs.
Open 2–5pm on Friday 7th & 2-6pm on Sunday 9th June. Full details on NGS . Also open by appointment from May to October for clubs, societies & groups, details on Lympstone.org
