View the map

Back

Middle Wood

Explore historic woodlands that will continue to change and develop with RHS Garden Bridgewater’s horticultural evolution

Interesting facts...

  • Distinct areas Middle Wood, with its distinct upper and lower areas, is part of 70 acres of woodland to explore
  • Future vision The woodland will continue to be developed to promote greater biodiversity
Lower Middle Wood in its latest incarnation

A varied canopy and diverse planting

Middle Wood has been a landscape feature on maps since at least 1799, although its extent and species composition has altered over the years. Today it is characterised by two halves. Upper Middle Wood incorporates a south-facing steep slope, sandy soil and a woodland of mature oaks, holly, yew trees and beech.

Lower Middle Wood has wetter clay soils and generally comprises a high level canopy of the more invasive sycamore with some oak, hazel, downy birch, holly and yew. The most noteworthy plant species located here are the ferns – notable for both their luxuriance and diversity.
Upper Middle Wood

A journey of horticultural evolution

The garden team will continue to develop diverse horticultural plantings through Middle Wood that respond to the topography, existing ecology, soil conditions and unique characteristics of this area including the constant presence of water. Developing and diversifying a woodland with significant wet elements will be a fascinating part of the horticultural evolution at RHS Garden Bridgewater. 

Over time, we’ll introduce a new palette of planting that will include ferns, dogwoods, willows, alders, sweet gums, birch, Hydrangea paniculata, H. macrophylla, Leycesteria formosa, Viburnum opulus cultivars, astilbes, hostas, sedges, rushes, moss and iris.

“Our vision for Middle Wood is really exciting. You’re part of a chain – it’s a custodianship. All gardens are like that but woodlands particularly because you’re planting it for your great grandchildren. The feeling that’s created will be enjoyed 100 years from now.”

Marcus Chilton-Jones, Curator, RHS Garden Bridgewater
Middle Wood will continue to evolve, creating a magical, changing space

Inspiring generations to come

Our approach to planning and planting this beautifully atmospheric woodland is to promote greater biodiversity for wildlife, create new habitats and enhance the woodland floor species.

The woodland garden will be a hybrid between the best that a native British woodland can offer with special additions of more horticulturally exotic plantings to widen its season of interest, help build greater resilience and create a magical space of true beauty. An exciting fusion of native and cultivated plants beckons to inspire generations of gardeners and growers to come.

Can you help to create this woodland garden?

Your gift will help us grow this exciting area for all visitors to enjoy.

Donate now

You may also be interested in...

Explore the must-see highlights of Bridgewater

Explore the must-see highlights of Bridgewater »

Learn more about RHS Garden Bridgewater

Learn more about RHS Garden Bridgewater »

Discover the story and history behind RHS Garden Bridgewater

Discover the story and history behind RHS Garden Bridgewater »

Find out about the Bridgewater community

Find out about the Bridgewater community »

Get involved

The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.