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Gooderstone Water Gardens

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About

A unique attraction for all garden lovers, naturalists and photographers - or those who simply want a restful break. Billy Knights, a retired farmer with no training but great enthusiasm began his garden in 1970 according to his own taste; his likes and dislikes were not dictated by fashion. When he died aged 93 in 1994 he left behind an entrancing 6.5 acre garden that sits well in the Norfolk countryside.

From the natural trout stream he created ponds and flowing waterways spanned by thirteen bridges. Combining the native and cultivated plants in informal beds his daughter Coral is endeavouring to further enhance this atmospheric garden. There are mature trees and shrubs, colourful bogs, plants and border perennials and flat grassy paths that lead visitors around corners to more lovely and unexpected views.

There is an 8 acre wildlife area to explore, which is managed to encourage the native flora, and a large bird hide where daily sightings of kingfishers are seen. A bright and cheerful tearoom serves delicious home made cakes. There are plant sales, toilets for disabled people, dogs on leads are allowed and visitors may picnic anywhere in the garden. This is a truly relaxing place for everyone to be, a real pleasure garden. Some visitors have written 'this is how I imagine heaven to be!'

What could be nicer than to stroll through an enchanting garden, explore the nature trail, perhaps spot a kingfisher and enjoy tea and yummy homemade cakes.

Guide Prices

Adults £9, Seniors £8.25, Children Free.

Facilities

Accessibility

  • Disabled access
  • Disabled toilets
  • Wheelchairs available

Catering

  • On-site light refreshments
  • Picnic site

Children

  • Children welcome

Groups

  • Facilities for educational visits
  • Facilities for groups

Parking

  • Free Parking

Property Facilities

  • Dogs Accepted
  • Public toilets

Target Markets

  • Accepts groups
  • Coach parties accepted

Map & Directions

Road Directions

By Road:
Take either A1065 or A47 to Swaffham, from Swaffham take Cley Road. Drive through Cockley Cley. Continue 1.5 miles to 1st left turn to Gooderstone and signposted water garden.

By Public transport:

Timetables and information can be accessed via the public transport information partnership Traveline. Traveline allows you to plan journeys from and to a postcode, postal address, town or village, named station or stop, or point of interest.

Call 0871 200 2233 to speak to an operator and plan your journey, or log onto www.traveline.info/
choose your location then simply type in where you are travelling from and to for a detailed trip summary.

The nearest railway station is Downham Market., which is 0 miles away.

Gooderstone Water Gardens

Type:Garden

The Street, Gooderstone, Norfolk, PE33 9BP

Tel: 01603 712913

Awards

  • East of England Awards Norfolk Tourist Attractions Association member 2016

Opening Times

* Garden Open Daily all year 10.30 am - 5.00 pm, last admission 4 pm.

Tearoom Open 7th March - 31 October, daily IF weather fair.

To check please phone 01366 328118 or 01366 328007.

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