Garden Finder > England > Norfolk > Gooderstone Water Gardens

Last updated on 01 February 12

Gooderstone Water Gardens

  • Gooderstone Water Gardens Photograph © Gooderstone Water Gardens
  • Gooderstone Water Gardens, Norfolk Photograph © Gooderstone Water Gardens
  • Pond, Gooderstone Water Gardens Photograph © Gooderstone Water Gardens

Gardenvisit Editorial

Gooderstone Water Gardens is a 6 and a half acre water garden with a stream, four ponds and flowing waterways spanned by thirteen bridges. It was created by a retired farmer in 1970. The site was previously a flat, treeless, wet meadow; too damp for cattle to graze. The garden is planted in a natural style, with trees, shrubs and moisture loving perennials.

Head Gardener's Comment

This very natural six acre garden sits well in the Norfolk countryside, nothing jars but there is plenty to move the senses. The naturalistic planting, clear flowing water, wind in the trees and abundant bird song create a haven of peacefulness. Combining native and cultivated plants in informal beds we are endeavouring to further enhance this atmospheric garden.

History

Billy Knights, with no training but great enthusiasm began his garden in 1970 according to his own taste; his likes & dislikes were not dictated by fashion. When he died aged 93 in 1994 he left behind an entrancing 6-acre garden. From the natural stream he created ponds and waterways spanned by thirteen bridges, in what was a flat and treelees wet meadow. With the additional 8-acre Nature Trail and Kingfisher hide it's truly a haven for people and wildlife.

Plants of Note

Astilbe

Bamboos

Day lilies

Eupatorium (joe pye wee)

Ligularia

Loosestrife

Reed mace

Sedges

Wild flowers

Address - The Street, Gooderstone, King's Lynn, Norfolk, England, PE33 9BP
Opening times - GARDEN: All year. Daily. Open 10am to 5:30pm (or dusk if earlier). TEAROOM: Saturdays and Sundays only 6th April-28th May. Then every day (except Mons) from 29th May-30th Sept. Open all Bank Holidays, except December and January.
Admission - Adults £6.00, Seniors £5.50, Children 6-16 yrs £2.00, 5 and under Free, Reductions for Group bookings. Visitors in Wheelchair: User of own wheelchair and their pusher charged as one person for admission. Users of electric wheelchairs or buggies £3.50 admission. There is a wheelchair available to hire, but must be booked beforehand please.
Website - Visit the Gooderstone Water Gardens website

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