A private mental health garden in Oxfordshire offers life-changing support, opening its gates to the public this summer

Bridewell Gardens, a private six-acre sanctuary near Witney, Oxfordshire, provides vital support to people recovering from serious mental illnesses. This walled garden and organic vineyard offer a peaceful space where patients nurture both plants and their own well-being.

Rachel Green, once a user diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, now works at Bridewell. She shares how the garden aided her recovery through teamwork and simple gardening tasks. “I absolutely loved it,” she says, highlighting how the garden helped her regain purpose and connection.

Director Ruth Madder describes the garden as “transformative,” noting that while the setting appears effortless, the impact on mental health is profound. The garden accommodates up to 16 gardeners each day, but is usually closed to the public.

Bridewell Gardens will hold several open days this summer, including this Sunday from 11:00 to 16:00 BST, inviting the wider community to visit. These events offer gardeners the chance to proudly share their work and progress with family and visitors.

Far from a secret, the garden aims to raise awareness and encourage more people to access its healing environment.