Garden Village to host its first Open Gardens
VILLAGE LIFE: Houses in The Oval in Garden Village. Picture by Bernard Sharp
By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor
Of all the lush neighbourhoods to have hosted Open Gardens events over the years, none is perhaps as appropriately named as Garden Village.
Yet remarkably, despite its name, purpose and design, this quiet and attractive area of Hull will hold its first ever Open Gardens on Saturday, June 13, more than a quarter of a century after Open Gardens events were launched in the UK.
Billed as “a vibrant celebration of community, creativity, and the beauty of one of the area’s most charming historic neighbourhoods”, the event will help raise funds for Dove House Hospice.
Visitors are invited to explore 11 unique private gardens, each offering its own character, planting style, and inspiration. They can also visit gardens at Dove House Hospice, including the Memory Garden, and historic Holderness House.
With its design influenced by the Garden City movement, the estate was built on 140 acres of land by the Hull Garden Village Co, with two-thirds of the £200,000 cost being donated by philanthropist Sir James Reckitt. Two thirds of the housing was reserved for workers at nearby Reckitt & Sons.
The aim of garden cities was to capture the benefits of the countryside and city while avoiding their disadvantages.
MUCH TO EXPLORE: An Open Garden
The distinctive houses in Garden Village feature steeply pitched roofs with overhanging eaves, recessed doorways, wood-framed windows, and gardens often bordered by privet hedges. Many of the tree-lined avenues are named after trees or shrubs.
The Open Gardens event will also feature six Fairy Trail gardens, although these are not open to the public.
Tiffany, a community fundraiser at Dove House Hospice, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to bring you another Open Gardens event this June, and this year is extra special as Garden Village opens its gardens for the very first time. Alongside this, visitors can explore our own beautiful memory garden and enjoy our onsite café, The Kitchen.
“It’s always so heart-warming to see the community come together in support of the hospice, while celebrating the creativity and dedication of our incredible local gardeners. We’re truly grateful to everyone who opens their gardens; your generosity helps us continue providing vital care and support to local patients and their loved ones.
“This event is a perfect family day out, with something for everyone to enjoy. Many gardens will offer lovely extras such as plant sales and refreshments, and we’re especially pleased to welcome families. Children under 16 go free, making it an accessible and enjoyable day for all. It’s a fantastic opportunity to spend quality time together while supporting a cause that makes a real difference in our community.”
Tickets are on sale in advance from the Dove House Shops in Holderness Road and Chamberlain Road, and on the day from Holderness House and participating gardens.