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King's Arms Garden

Small woodland garden of about 1½ acres created by plantsman, the late William Nourish. Trees, shrubs, bulbs and many interesting collections throughout the year. Since 1987, the garden has been maintained by ‘The Friends of the Garden’ on behalf of Ampthill Town Council. Charming woodland garden with mass plantings of snowdrops and early spring bulbs. Beautiful autumn colours in October.

Owner Info

  • Ampthill Town Council
King's Arms Garden
King's Arms Garden
King's Arms Garden
King's Arms Garden
King's Arms Garden
King's Arms Garden
King's Arms Garden
King's Arms Garden
King's Arms Garden
King’s Arms Garden
King’s Arms Garden
King’s Arms Garden
King’s Arms Garden
King’s Arms Garden
King’s Arms Garden
King’s Arms Garden
King’s Arms Garden
King’s Arms Garden

About King's Arms Garden

The earliest reference to this land named it as ‘The Hop Ground’ in 1676. Through the years many changes took place: it was used as a paddock, a cricket ground, then a holding place for stock and subsequently became a rubbish dump. Ampthillians knew the area as “Mr Nourish’s Garden” because in 1968 the late W H (Bill) Nourish obtained permission from Ampthill Town Council to clear and plant the land.

Mr Nourish, a distinguished horticulturist was A.D.A.S. Regional Horticultural Officer until his retirement in 1970. During the years until he died in 1986, he used all his professional ability and gifts as a plantsman to create a lovely woodland garden. This story is included for visitors and newcomers to the town.

Since 1987 the garden has been maintained by the Friends of the Garden on behalf of Ampthill Town Council. It is open Monday & Thursday 10.00 – 12.00 weather permitting, the last Sunday of the month January to September 2.00 – 4.00 and to groups by arrangement.
Facebook – @kingsarmsgarden
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King's Arms Garden features

  • Autumn Colours
  • Cashless
  • Dog friendly
  • Historical Garden
  • Plants for sale
  • Refreshments
  • Snowdrops
  • Town Garden
  • Wheelchair access
  • Wildlife Garden

Location details

King's Arms Garden,
Bedford,
Bedfordshire,
MK45 2PP

Directions to King's Arms Garden
Free parking in Waitrose car park limited time. Entrance opp Market Square Cafe, down King's Arms Path, 2nd gate on the R.

King's Arms Garden openings

For this open day you can book your tickets in advance. Click on the yellow button below to book or you can just turn up and pay on the day.

Refreshments Light refreshments.
Admission Adult: £5.00
Child: Free
Opening times 14:00-16:00

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair friendly path running around most of the garden.
  • Share this garden

Other Gardens of Potential Interest

FAQs

Yes, cashless payment is accepted.

Sorry, there is no available parking for coaches at King's Arms Garden at this time.

Yes, dogs are welcome at  King's Arms Garden. Please keep the dogs on fixed short leads in the garden and keep in mind that you are responsible for controlling the dog’s behaviour. For any specific rules please ask the owners.

Yes, there are various plants offerred for sale at  King's Arms Garden, please enquire with the owners for more details.

Yes, one or more routes at King's Arms Garden are accessible to wheelchair users.

Yes. King's Arms Garden seeks to offer a sustainable refuge for nearby fauna and wildlife. These sanctuaries host diverse habitats supporting indigenous flora and fauna and nurturing local biodiversity.