The Lower Garden

The Lower Garden holds ornamental collections including the Rock Garden, which has many Mediterranean species, the Gin Border in which plants commonly used in the production of gin are grown, the Herbaceous Border, Plants That Changed the World beds, and the Merton Borders.

The Lower Garden is adjacent to Christ Church Meadow and bordered by the river Cherwell, and provides a tranquil space perfect for picnics. Gardeners will find inspiration in the colourful and dramatic plantings.

In the far left hand corner sits a bench which has become a place of pilgrimage for many visitors to the Garden. It is a significant location in Philip Pullman’s ‘His Dark Materials’ trilogy in which characters Will and Lyra can meet between their respective worlds.