Shere garden glory at open day

Karen Neville

Enjoy a quintessentially English afternoon in a picturesque village admiring the  beauty of the gardens open to the public

Shere’s gardeners have been busy preparing for Sunday, 29th June, when they will be inviting you to view a selection of magical private gardens to help raise money for local causes and Cherry Trees respite care.   

If you haven’t already been, Shere is one of the most picturesque villages in Surrey, nestling at the foot of the North Downs between Guildford and Dorking, and well worth a visit. 

Whether you are a keen gardener or simply curious to see behind the lichen covered walls and manicured hedges, Shere Open Gardens has something for everyone. This event provides a glimpse of quintessential England and allows you to enjoy an afternoon wandering around gorgeous gardens in full bloom. There is enormous variety, from small, sheltered courtyards with enchanting flowering pots and containers, classic cottage gardens festooned with roses, hydrangeas and lupins, to lush waterside gardens with verdant shade loving planting. 

Refreshments are offered by the cricket club’s flamboyant Pimm’s stall beside the river Tillingbourne, and in the village hall Shere School parents will be serving delicious home-made cakes and tea with the opportunity to take the weight off your feet! Outside, the plant stall, run by Cherry Trees respite care, delivers the chance to take home a souvenir plant or two or possibly more.  

Strolling between each garden through the pretty streets of Shere will allow you to view the charming historic village buildings many of which are listed. St James’s Church with its Lutyens lychgate dates to the 12th century.  Shere Museum has a fine collection of artefacts highlighting Shere’s connection with the film industry, the bouncing bomb, as well as, it goes without saying, gardening implements from times gone by. 

Shere Open Gardens first started raising funds for local causes and charities in 1978, since when it has always proved to be a thoroughly enjoyable way to spend a glorious summer’s afternoon. 

Location: Shere, off A25 halfway between Guildford and Dorking 

Date: Sunday, 29th June 

Time: 2pm-6pm 

Free Parking: Well signposted 

Entry: Adults £10 on the day, over 65s £8, children under 16 free. Discounted tickets can be purchased online in advance – Adults £9. 

More information and advance tickets:  shereopengardens.co.uk