Past, Planting & Present
Tucked beside the Visitor Centre, the Woodland Garden is a peaceful place to enjoy a short stroll among trees, plants and seasonal colour.
The area has a fascinating history. In the 19th century, this was not a formal garden with planted flower beds. Instead, it was an open grassy area fringed with trees, forming part of the route from Penllergare House to the Shanty – the boathouse beside the Upper Lake. It was also a favourite spot for entertaining, with marquees regularly erected on the grass for gatherings and celebrations.
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History
The layout of the historic landscape can be seen in a watercolour by Emma Charlotte Dillwyn Llewelyn. In the painting, the Shanty can be seen beside the lake, with the grassy area that is now the Woodland Garden above it. The chimneys of the rear of Penllergare House can also be glimpsed through the trees.
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A labour of love
Today, the character of this historic landscape has been reimagined as a woodland garden. Since 2014, our hardworking volunteers have been creating and caring for the garden, developing a beautiful space that complements its wooded surroundings while taking inspiration from Penllergare’s Victorian past..
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A Garden through the seasons
As you explore, look out for mature trees and remnants of historic planting, including rhododendrons associated with John Dillwyn Llewelyn’s work. The garden provides a changing display throughout the seasons and is a lovely place to pause, wander and enjoy the woodland.
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Mapping the past
A comparison between late 19th-century maps and modern satellite views highlights how Penllergaer has changed. While surrounding areas have seen modern development, the map shows that the historic Fish Pond and the surrounding tree-lined valley remain intact—preserving the peaceful woodland setting you see today.
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PLAN YOUR VISIT
Located right beside the Visitor Centre, the Woodland Garden is an easy addition to any visit to Penllergare Valley Woods – whether you have just a few minutes for a stroll or time to stop and explore.