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Mere Folly

Part of historic garden on several levels, with stone retaining walls and steps, planted banks and lawns. Spring fed swimming pool, with paved surround is used by visiting wildlife. Row of old yew trees converted to large topiary, with new topiary and hedges for evergreen structure. Mature trees with borders of mixed shrubs and perennials give colour and interest throughout the seasons.

Owner Info

  • Mr Malcolm & Mrs Maggie McKillop
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About Mere Folly

The neglected southeast corner of Shipton Court Gardens was sold in 1997 as a one acre building plot. The new house (not open) was constructed at the south end of the water garden, echoing the form of The Summerhouse at the north end, and completed in 1999. The garden was then renovated, retaining what was good/healthy and respecting the structure of the original garden. Old yew was returned to topiary, the long border below the buttressed stone wall was reinstated and the pool and poolside paving repaired. Much of the new planting is from plants encouraged to self seed, divisions and cuttings. The planting style is relaxed and naturalistic with ground cover in shade areas. As part of the larger garden to the east of Shipton Court there are views of the Court and other parts of the gardens beyond.

Mere Folly features

Location details

Mere Folly,
Chipping Norton,
Oxfordshire,
OX7 6DZ

Directions to Mere Folly
On leaving the cricket club, cross the road and turn L, continue past the entrance to the Jacobean manor house (not open), follow the tall wall. At the end of the wall the entrance is on your R.

Mere Folly openings

This garden has now completed its National Garden Scheme openings for this year.

Accessibility

  • No information available at this time, please get in touch with the owners for details.
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FAQs

Yes, cashless payment is accepted.

Sorry, there is no available parking for coaches at Mere Folly at this time.

Yes, dogs are welcome at Mere Folly. 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 Mere Folly, please enquire with the owners for more details.

Sorry, Mere Folly does not yet accommodate wheelchair users.

Yes. Mere Folly 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.