REWIND: Constructing the Physic Garden
By Ellyn Wright
29th Nov 2020 | Local News
Situated within the Old Hall grounds with the medieval town wall to its south side, the Physic Garden is one of Cowbridge's most historic and idyllic locations.
But how did this local beauty spot come to be?
The original garden was developed by the Edmondes family, prominent landowners in the 18th century who acquired Old Hall.
Records from the 19th century show the walled enclosure in the south-east corner of the gardens with beds and paths in a design reflecting traditional patterns.
In the 1920s, following the departure of the Edmondes family, the Physic Garden became a kitchen garden for Cowbridge Grammar School and a tree nursery for the Local Authority.
By the end of the 20th century, after years of neglect, the garden was overgrown and fell into disrepair. A transformation was in order.
The Cowbridge Physic Garden Trust was established to continue a project begun by the South and Mid Glamorgan Branch of the Welsh Historic Gardens Trust.
In 2004, volunteers were inspired to create the Physic Garden once again. Their work was supported by the Vale of Glamorgan Council.
Clearance of the site started in August 2005, and was completed one year later. The volunteers began planting, and the public was admitted to see their progress.
Their hard work, dedication and fundraising transformed the area. The ancient walls and building were repaired and plants were sourced and put in.
In June 2008, HRH The Duchess of Cornwall declared the Physic Garden open.
The volunteers maintain the garden to such a high standard that it repeatedly earns Green Flag Awards and won the highest accolade in the RHS Wales in Bloom 'It's your neighbourhood' category.
The Physic Garden contains only plants found in Britain before 1800, and includes plants used in medicine, the kitchen, cosmetics, perfume and dyeing, as well as aesthetic florae.
In the 12 central beds, visitors will find plants specific to a body parts or illnesses, while the outer beds contain colourful and fragrant plants recognised for their soothing quality.
Find out more about the Physic Garden and the volunteers here .
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