View the map

Back

Victoria Meadow

Over time the 21-acre meadow is being transformed into a rich and varied tapestry of native flora and a haven for visitors and wildlife

Interesting facts...

  • Looking its best In summertime the meadow is full of swaying grasses and seedheads
  • Future vision Reducing soil fertility will allow native wildflowers to thrive here over time
Mown paths will lead visitors through Victoria Meadow

A tranquil escape

This low-lying meadow, visible from Meadow View Terrace of the Welcome Building, is a tranquil spot in the garden – a place to escape and meander through a maze of mown grass paths. In summer, Victoria Meadow is packed with grasses and seedheads, and from harvest time the yellow stubble of the hay crop shines on the horizon.

The meadow has an exciting future ahead. With time and patience we will convert the existing grassland into a species-rich meadow.
Years of fertiliser use have reduced the diversity of the meadowland

Creating a haven for wildflowers

The 21-acre meadow was described in a 2017 botanical survey as ‘exceptionally species-poor’. In fact, it is typical of most meadowlands across the UK that are subject to intense farming.

Excessive use of fertiliser has promoted nutrient-demanding perennial rye grassland, grown for animal fodder, where once a traditional hay meadow may have grown. This method of farming strips the land of plant diversity, and the wildlife that once relied on this also disappears.

Our vision is to transform Victoria Meadow into a rich ecosystem of native flora that will thrive in the peaks and troughs of the undulating landscape.
Patches of lowland bog habitat in Victoria Meadow

Protecting rare habitats

Several priority habitats have been earmarked for creation including lowland meadows, lowland fen, and lowland mixed deciduous woodland.

The southern boundary of the meadow will be planted with native scrub for birds, invertebrates and small mammals. Improving the biodiversity of the meadow will take time and will happen when soil nutrients reduce, allowing wildflower species to establish.

The existing copse of trees, which consists of mature beech, oak, ash and hawthorn, is being retained and several new groups of trees planted to complement it.
Galeopsis speciosa, the large-flowered hemp-nettle

Chat Moss

Chat Moss is an ancient low-lying peat bog that covers an area equivalent to 10 square miles. Originally it incorporated the southern low-lying area of Bridgewater. It has significant value to wildlife including overwintering raptors such as hen harriers, merlins and short-eared owls.

Soil movement and excavation during the construction phase of the garden disturbed deeply buried, historic seed associated with the black peaty soils of Chat Moss and allowed them to germinate. The most distinctive being the large-flowered hemp-nettle, Galeopsis speciosa, a beautiful and once common annual species.

Can you help to create this meadow?

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 »

Read more about boosting biodiversity at Bridgewater

Read more about boosting biodiversity at Bridgewater »

Create your own flower meadow

Create your own flower meadow »

Love gardening

Sign up to receive regular gardening tips, inspiration, offers and more

View our Privacy Policy

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.