King John's Garden

The garden was begun in 1990. The idea was to create a period garden in keeping with the historic buildings. The oldest, King John's House dates from the 13th century and first belonged to Romsey Abbey until its dissolution in 1539. In late Tudor times a two storey timber framed building was added. All the plants in the first part of the garden were in cultivation before 1700 and this part of the garden was opened in 1995. When the Victorian property which now houses the Museum was purchased, a further garden beside the tea room was established in 2001 with a Victorian flavour. The garden is now well established and provides a delightful green sanctuary in the heart of Romsey. It is divided in two parts by a high brick wall, all that remains of the Queen Anne cottages which once stood on this spot. The north side of the garden is more informal having an area of spring meadow planted with apple trees, a summer meadow and bounded on one side by a stream. There is also a stone paved courtyard with a quince and a pentice which provides a shady seating area.
The south side of the garden is laid out in a series of gardens, there is a medieval style herber, then a series of beds well stocked with flowers of the period, including lavender, old roses and clematis. From here the path leads to a fountain courtyard and then to the tearoom and Victorian garden.
The garden is maintained by a team of volunteers. Presently we have plenty of garden helpers but if you would like to support the gardens and receive invites to yearly events you can become a Friend of King John's gardens for a subscription of £5 a year. The Friends of KJG get an invitation to the AGM which usually includes a talk from a garden expert and to an organised summer garden visit. Many Friends also get involved in fundraising and running garden events and open days.
To become a 'Friend' of the garden please contact the membership secretary using the email address listed on this page.