Bridge End Garden was created around 1840 by Francis Gibson, a local Quaker businessman who also built the Fry Art Gallery. Francis’ daughter Elizabeth married Lewis Fry of Bristol and in 1918 the Fry family leased the Garden to the local council. It has been open to the public ever since with entrances off Castle Street, Bridge Street and by the Cricket Field. The Garden is open, free to the public, all year except Christmas Day. For the current opening times of the Walled Garden and the Hedge Maze, please contact the Tourist Information Centre on 01799 524002.
Over time, Bridge End Garden fell into neglect. An ambitious restoration project took place between 2003 and 2008. The Garden is registered as Grade II* by Historic England.
You can learn more about the history and restoration in the Visitor Centre, located in the Walled Garden.
Bridge End Garden is a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. There are many benches spread throughout the Garden and it is the perfect place for a summer picnic or to provide a quiet escape from modern life.
Theatre, music and the Maze Festival are regular features within the garden. The Walled Garden is available to hire for wedding receptions.
Since 2010, the Garden has been managed by Saffron Walden Town Council, with support from the Friends of Bridge End Gardens, a charity formed to support the restoration, management and future development of the Garden. The friends welcome newcomers and volunteers to join them. Details are available from Saffron Walden Tourist Information Centre.
