City garden owned by Bishops of Norwich to open to public

Bishop's House Garden in Norwich, which has been owned by the Bishops of Norwich for more than 900 years, will welcome visitors as part of this year's Heritage Open Days.

The four-acre garden is home to a variety of plants and features including a hosta walk, meadow labyrinth, jungle walk, and herbaceous borders.

The garden also offers views of historic architecture, such as the Norman stonework on the North Transept of the Cathedral, which can only be seen from the Bishop’s House Garden.

The public can explore the grounds for free on September 11 and 12, without needing to book tickets.

Public invited to explore historic city garden (Image: Supplied)

The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham Usher, said: “This incredible garden, of which I am fortunate to be the current custodian, is a place where people find God’s peace and blessing in the shadow of Norwich Cathedral.

"I hope the various environmental priorities that we have put in place also mean that those who visit enjoy the garden’s rich biodiversity.”

The nationwide festival of heritage and culture is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2024, with dozens of venues across Norfolk, including historic church buildings in the Diocese of Norwich, taking part.

A historic city centre garden will welcome visitors as part of this year’s Heritage Open Days series of events (Image: Supplied)

Liam Montgomery, from Heritage Open Days, said: “The scale and diversity of Heritage Open Days is just incredible – every year thousands of passionate people help visitors to make doorstep discoveries and connect with history and heritage in every part of England.”

The Bishop’s House Garden will be open between 10am and 4pm on both September 11 and 12.

Admission is free, courtesy of support provided to Heritage Open Days from the National Trust and People’s Postcode Lottery.

For more information about other venues taking part in the event, visit the Heritage Open Days website.