Introduction
The restoration of The Walled Gardens at Croome Court is a long-term, ongoing project that began in 2000. What visitors see today is the result of decades of careful research, traditional craftsmanship, archaeological discovery and sustained dedication.
Rather than a single moment of transformation, the gardens have evolved year by year. This page shares that journey, grouped into key phases that reflect how the restoration has developed over time.
Phase One: Beginnings and Discovery 2000–2004
When Chris and Karen Cronin became custodians of the Walled Gardens in 2000, much of the site was inaccessible. Glasshouses were derelict, paths were lost beneath overgrowth and many original structures were hidden or misunderstood.
Early work focused on stabilisation, clearance and investigation. As the gardens were carefully uncovered, the original layout began to emerge. This phase laid the foundations for every restoration project that followed.
Key achievements
• Initial clearance and safety works
• Assessment of glasshouses and walls
• Early archaeological discoveries
• Understanding the historic layout
Phase Two: Rebuilding the Glasshouses 2005–2012
This period marked the start of major structural restoration across the gardens. Traditional joinery methods were used to rebuild the Melon House and Fig House, with timber frames and sash windows recreated to historic proportions. These were among the first glasshouses to return to working order, bringing horticulture back into the heart of the garden.
Alongside the glasshouse restoration, this phase also saw the design and creation of the formal Rose Garden layout. The ground was carefully carved out and shaped during this period, establishing the structure and setting for what would later become one of the garden’s most recognisable and much-loved features. The planting of the David Austin roses followed in a later phase, building on the strong foundations laid at this stage.
Key achievements
• Melon House timber frame rebuilt
• Fig House restored
• Historic glazing reinstated
• Growing environments re-established
• Formal Rose Garden layout designed and established
Phase Three: Rediscovering the Past 2013–2018
As restoration continued, attention turned to areas that had been overlooked for generations. Archaeological investigation revealed underground tunnels and hidden structures, transforming understanding of how the garden once functioned as part of the wider Croome Estate.
Work in the Secret Woodland uncovered hundreds of historic objects, offering rare insight into daily life, working practices, and the infrastructure that supported the gardens.
To support these discoveries and improve interpretation, a new visitor centre was introduced, providing a dedicated space to share the garden’s history, archaeological finds, and ongoing restoration story with the public. This space is currently occupied by Croome Gallery & Pottery.
Key achievements
- Exploration of underground tunnels
- Archaeological digs in the Secret Woodland
- Interpretation of historic infrastructure
- Creation of a new visitor centre
- Increased visitor access to discoveries
Phase Four: New Features and Major Projects 2019–2023
This phase saw the restoration expand beyond essential structures into new garden features that complemented the historic landscape.
The Tomato House was restored using bespoke joinery made on site. The Mosaic Garden and Mediterranean Garden introduced artistic and horticultural layers inspired by history but expressed in contemporary ways.
Key achievements
• Tomato House restoration
• Establishment of the Mediterranean Garden
• Creation of the Mosaic Garden
• Expansion of heritage planting
Phase Five: Recent Highlights and Milestones 2024–2025
Recent years have marked significant milestones. The Water Garden was unveiled during anniversary celebrations, and the Pineapple House was completed in spring 2025. Pineapples have now been successfully reintroduced and are maturing inside the restored structure.
These achievements represent the maturity of the restoration project and its ability to revive even the most specialist historic growing environments.
Key achievements
• Water Garden completed
• Pineapple House fully restored
• Pineapples reintroduced and maturing
• Continued improvements to access and irrigation
Phase Six: Looking Ahead
The restoration of The Walled Gardens is ongoing. Planned projects include a permanent pavilion for learning and events, extended lighting for seasonal openings and a cascade water feature planned for completion in 2026.
Each future phase builds on the foundations already established, ensuring the gardens continue to evolve while remaining true to their historic character.
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