Press Release

Christmas is a truly magical time at Kew’s country garden in West Sussex. 2005 highlights include:…

• In early December a wide variety of Christmas trees, grown on the estate, goes on sale. The top-quality species include the traditional Norway Spruce and Scots Pine, plus a number of more modern varieties such as Nordman Fir and Omorika. Tel the shop on 01444 894072 for full details. Prices start from £10.

• Don’t miss the country’s largest growing Christmas tree, festooned with around 1,800 lights. The giant Redwood stands proudly outside the Mansion at Wakehurst Place, and is lit nightly from Advent until Twelfth Night.

• Miss the high street hassle. Enjoy late night Shopping in the comfort of the expansive gift-shop and plant centre. Open until late on Friday 2nd, Thursday 8th and Friday 9th December. Also snacks in the Seed Café, a chance to see the massive lit tree and enjoy the Mansion Gallery exhibition. Free entry from 4.30pm.

• During December, pre-booked Christmas lunches will be available in the Elizabethan Mansion’s oak-panelled dining room. A traditional menu will be on offer, along with a vegetarian alternative. There will also be a number of starters and desserts. Book on 01444 894040.

• On Friday the 16th December Wakehurst Place will be holding a free carols evening. The event features popular carols, children’s activity sessions and late-night festive shopping. Minced pies and mulled wine will be available. The evening will be hosted by radio presenter, and music guru, David Miller from BBC Radio Solent and BBC Southern Counties Radio, plus local choirs.

• Walk around the 180-acres of Kew’s country garden to help digest the Boxing Day bulge. The ornamental plantings and woodlands of Wakehurst Place, at Ardingly, West Sussex, will open at 10am on the 26th December. Last admission at 4.00pm allows time to visit the Millennium Seed Bank interactive exhibition. Refreshments will be available.

• Bring your tree back in early January to be chipped for free. Chipping will take place in the car park at Wakehurst Place on Sunday 8th January. Take your chippings home, or leave them for use on the Wakehurst Place estate.

Wakehurst Place is on the B2028 between Turners Hill and Ardingly. Take Junction 10 off the M23. The gardens are open daily (except 24 and 25 Dec) from 10am. Winter closing is at 4.30pm, last admission at 4pm. Entry is FREE for all under 17. An adult season ticket, offering year-round entry is just £16. Single adult admission is £8.
Tel 01444 894066 www.kew.org

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For more information, images or interview opportunities, please contact the Press Office on 01444 894018 or e-mail: msb@kew.org

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