Fullers Mill is an enchanting and tranquil seven-acre creation on the banks of the River Lark. It combines a beautiful site of light dappled woodland with a plantsman’s collection of unusual shrubs, perennials, lilies and marginal plants. It is a garden of truly year-round interest. The garden was created by the late Bernard Tickner MBE (1924-2017). He moved to Fullers Mill in 1958 and spent over 50 years creating the garden you see today from rough scrub and woodland. In 2004 he and his wife Bess donated the garden to The Fullers Mill Trust, a registered charity, which was established to manage the garden and to ensure its future.

In 2013, the garden was gifted to Perennial, for its long-term preservation. Head Gardener Annie Dellbridge and her team of gardeners and volunteers now maintain the garden for the enjoyment of visitors from April to October.

Visit England assessors arrive at attractions unannounced, speak to members of staff and other visitors about the attraction and their experience of it. Hazel Hook the assessor who visited Fullers Mill Garden in early May, said of the garden:

“The gardens at Fullers Mill Garden are delightful and well-maintained with friendly and knowledgeable volunteers and garden staff, who were happy to chat with visitors and very willing to share their expert knowledge.”

How Perennial Helps

Perennial is the UK’s only charity looking after people in horticulture and their families at any stage of life. If you work with flowers, plants, trees or grass, our friendly and experienced team are here to deliver completely free, confidential and personal support. We understand the devastating impact unexpected personal challenges and financial pressures has on lives. If you need help or know someone who does please contact us on 0800 093 8543 or visit perennial.org.uk.

With special thanks to Marcus Harpur, Jonathan Ward and Charlie Colmar for the photography used on these pages.