The hugely successful Hidden Gardens of Bryher day raised a staggering sum for The Island Haven – and is set to become an annual fixture in the islands’ calendar!
Bryher’s 2024 Open Gardens event took place on Sunday 9th June and the crowds – encouraged by the beautiful weather – certainly came out in support of the event.
Around a dozen gardens were opened across the island, giving visitors the chance to see ‘behind the garden gate’ and explore some of the island’s hidden secrets and views.
Refreshments were available at Jenford in ‘the town’, where guests could enjoy hot and cold drinks and homemade cakes donated by islanders, accompanied by the garden’s beautiful blooms and a marvellous view down the channel towards Tresco, Samson and St Mary’s.
There were eleven ‘hidden gardens’ open across the island, at Pinetrees, The Lookout, Hillcrest, Carn Villa, South Hill, The Boathouse, Samson Hill Cottage, Hanjague and Chafford.
Hillside Farm was also open, with visitors able to see where the farm’s crops (including the popular Scilly Chillis!) are grown and harvested, before being sold on the farm’s honesty stall.
Entry to all gardens was just £5 per person (children under 12 free), and cakes and other refreshments made by islanders were available for a donation. Hillside Farm kindly supplied the jam and cream for the cream teas, and Bryher Shop generously donated the milk, tea and coffee supplies.
In total, the event raised £1,853.50 from garden entry and donations – including an incredible £593.50 from refreshment donations. The total was then made up to £2,000 exactly thanks to a generous donation from Sue and Chris at Fraggle Rock.
We look forward to confirming the date for Bryher’s 2025 Open Gardens event!
If you or your island would like to follow in Bryher’s footsteps and hold an Open Garden or other fundraising event for The Island Haven, please get in touch – we’re always happy to offer support, advice and fundraising materials!