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MHA The Wilderness

MHA The Wilderness is a reformed heritage garden first created by Rev William Wilks, Vicar of Shirley and former secretary of the Royal Horticulture Society, between 1904 and 1923. In spring/early summer there are mature rhodendrons planted by Wilks, azaleas and Shirley poppies (bred by Wilks). At 2pm Lucy James, Head Gardener, will give a tour of the garden inc its history and development.

Owner Info

  • Methodist Homes
MHA The Wilderness
MHA The Wilderness
MHA The Wilderness
MHA The Wilderness
MHA The Wilderness
MHA The Wilderness
MHA The Wilderness
MHA The Wilderness
MHA The Wilderness
MHA The Wilderness
MHA The Wilderness
MHA The Wilderness

About MHA The Wilderness

The garden provides a wide range of seasonal interest to visitors. As well as the spring interest plants, there is an impressive display of naturalised miniature narcissi in late winter, and good colour from early summer to autumn from specimen trees including Parrotia persica and Cercidiphyllum japonicum. Our naturally occurring bog is a Site of Metropolitan Interest and home to 4 species of sphagnum moss as well as miniature narcissi, Camassias, common orchids and mature specimens of Osmunda regalis.

Wilk’s legacy is continued with a focus on wild gardening and promotion of sustainable gardening practices. We are committed to opening the garden to the community and providing an inclusive environment that welcomes everyone to benefit from interactions with nature in a secure and safe environment. There is an inclusive programme of conservation volunteering opportunities and nature-based activities to the local community.

Please note, the carpark is for residents and their families only. There is car parking on neighbouring streets.

Images courtesy of Tom Sherrin and Ron Barker.

Website:

https://www.mha.org.uk/get-involved/the-wilderness

MHA The Wilderness features

  • Autumn Colours
  • Cashless
  • Children Very Welcome
  • Daffodils
  • Dog friendly
  • Historical Garden
  • Newly Opened This Year
  • Picnics
  • Plants for sale
  • Refreshments
  • Wheelchair access
  • Wildlife Garden

Location details

MHA The Wilderness,
Croydon,
Surrey,
CR9 5AL

Directions to MHA The Wilderness
Situated behind MHA Hall Grange Care Home. The garden is accessed via a green gate to the R of care home & car park (for residents only). Street parking nearby. Buses: 466 & 130 plus 5 min walk.

MHA The Wilderness 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: £4.00
Child: Free
Opening times 10:00-15:00

Accessibility

  • Accessible path circles the entire garden, though on a slight incline.
  • Share this garden

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FAQs

Yes, cashless payment is accepted.

Sorry, there is no available parking for coaches at MHA The Wilderness at this time.

Yes, dogs are welcome at  MHA The Wilderness. 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  MHA The Wilderness, please enquire with the owners for more details.

Yes, one or more routes at MHA The Wilderness are accessible to wheelchair users.

Yes. MHA The Wilderness 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.