An almost-forgotten walled garden in the grounds of one of the grandest houses in Swindon dating back close to 300 years is being brought back to life.

The Grade II*-listed  Burderop House on the southern boundary of the town came complete with a spectacular walled kitchen garden as well as a charming bothy  - a small brick-built structure originally used as housing for under-gardeners working at such grand houses.

 The main house and the walled garden on its grounds were sold separately a few years ago, and while property developer Arthur Dallimer is restoring the house to its former glory, his neighbours Jules Gilleland and Mark Wheeler are doing the same for the ‘Bothy Garden’.

They bought the site in 2021, and their plan will include greenhouses, flood plant beds, nurseries for rare plants, including orchids, a garden library, and an atelier/classroom.

Jules said: “This site is our dream location for our lives together.

“Mark is the mastermind behind the plants – an award-winning horticulturist with a reputation that precedes him. As for me, I’m an established designer with a huge passion for art and design, including painting and creating spaces for learning. The Bothy Gardens will combine our lives and passions alongside a wholesale plant business.”

The couple are also bringing the Bothy back into use after it has been derelict for more than two decades, and will live it in while they complete the restoration of the garden.

 Jules added: “We're committed to preserving the heritage of this place while infusing it with new life. We want to share Bothy Gardens with others who share our love for gardening, art, and the simple joys of nature.”

 Mark, an award-winning nursery gardener said he has always wanted a walled garden: “My vision for Bothy Gardens is not just about restoring a historic space, but about creating something truly unique - a living legacy of rare and extraordinary plants.

 “I’ve spent years collecting and cultivating plants that are often overlooked or forgotten. Here is an opportunity to build something that will outlive us - a sanctuary where rare species can thrive and be appreciated by future generations.”

Jules and Mark recently opened Bothy Gardens to volunteers for four days a month after neighbours expressed an interest in discovering more after following the Bothy Gardens blog and Instagram feed.

 By the spring of next year, Jules hopes to be running her first art and garden for small groups.

To find out more about the volunteering opportunities and to register an interest in upcoming classes, visit www.bothygardens.com.