Spring is now here, the daffodils are blooming, garden centres are buzzing and tourist attractions are getting ready for the busy Easter Period. If you are planning to visit Weymouth in Dorset over the holiday period or are looking for family activities to keep your children busy during the school holidays then a visit to Bennetts Water Gardens is a must – you will not be disappointed.
Established in 1959 Bennetts Water Gardens is one of Europe’s oldest water lily nurseries and has a National and International Collection of over 150 species of water lilies (Nymphaea) blooming throughout the summer. Based near the village of Chickerell, the collection is one of three in the United Kingdom specialising in hardy water lilies. The water lilies flower from late spring though to autumn and the Gardens offer a unique wedding venue for Civil Ceremonies, Receptions, Functions and Corporate Events.
The Water Gardens
The gardens have been landscaped to create a tranquil walk around numerous lakes with many places to sit and unwind. The blue Monet style Japanese bridge was built in 1999 to celebrate 100 years since Claude Monet painted his famous piece Water Lily Pond 1899. The bridge forms the centrepiece of the eight acre garden located in Chickerell while grass pathways lead you through the series of ponds and lakes surrounded by wetland plants, native trees, palms, wild plants and flowers.. There are scenic places to sit and unwind and shaded woodland walks to explore.
The Tropical House contains exotic plants including a cacti collection and a Family Nature Trail keeps young visitors interested. You will see some large wet loving plants, palms wild flowers, reed beds and trees. These all attract a wide range of wildlife including Dragonflies, Herons and Kingfishers all of which combine to make these gardens a designated ‘Site of Nature Conservation Interest’. Partial wheelchair access is available around the gardens, although this may be restricted during wet weather.
Aquatic Nursery
Bennetts Water Gardens’ Aquatic Nursery is one of the original UK plant growers of water lilies with over 50 years experience of pond plants. The Water Lily plants are generally available between April and September and available from the Aquatic Nursery. The aquatic plants and pond supplies are also available to buy through the online shop.
Museum
The site was originally a clay pit as far back as 1859 when Oxford Clay was dug by hand from the ground for brick making. The onsite Museum contains a fascinating history of this site, from the time of the Brickworks & Clay Pits through to the gardens of today, and also including local history of Chickerell village (mentioned in the Domesday Book), Chesil Beach and Fleet lagoon.
Restaurant & Shop
The new licensed restaurant, Café Monet, has views over the water gardens, and is a great place to meet for lunch whether you are visiting the gardens or just stopping by to browse in the shop.
The café serves coffees, home-made lunches, cakes and cream teas. The café is ideal for private functions, birthdays, Christmas parties and other special occasions.
You can also browse the shop for special gifts or plants for your garden or order these via the online shop.
Easter Bunny Egg Hunt 2nd to 5th April
Don’t miss the Bennetts Water Gardens Easter Bunny Egg Hunt in Weymouth on Good Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Easter Monday. A special Easter trail will lead children around the gardens; where they can find clues to complete the trail and get rewarded with a chocolate egg. There will also be an Easter Colouring Competition for a chance to win a prize. Café Monet will also be serving special Easter lunches and normal admission rates apply on the day.
Bennett Water Gardens Opening Times
The Garden is open between 14th March to 29th October 2010, 10am to 5pm daily and closed on Saturdays. Café Monet is open all year but closed every Saturday for private functions. Admission is £6.95 for Adults, Children up to 4 years are free, Children 4 - 16 years £3.95, Family Ticket (2 adults & 2 children) £18.50 and Seniors/Students £6.25. Please contact Bennetts Water Gardens for discount admission rates for groups. No dogs allowed. There is free parking for cars and coaches on site.
If you would like further informal guidance feel free to chat with us at The Outdoor Store right opposite the railway station in Weymouth. We would also be delighted to help equip you for your outdoor activities with a range of quality affordable clothing, Regatta waterproof jackets, guide books and maps.








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