Just off Cowbridge High Street, the Physic Garden is a little oasis of calm and beauty. It has a mix of plants, flowers and trees that traditionally would have been grown in herbal gardens of old for cooking, dyeing fabrics, perfumery and, of course, for healing.
Laid out in a formal design, Cowbridge Physic Garden is the labour of love of a number of dedicated volunteers. Originally, it was part of the garden of Old Hall, the home of the Edmondes family; it was rescued and transformed into the present garden, which opened in 2007, and within its splendid high stone walls, it presents a spectacular display of colour, fragrance, texture and fascination.
Although quite small at just ½ an acre (0.2ha) garden enthusiasts will love the variety of species that have been included. The planting plan reflects physic gardens from the 17th and 18th centuries (none of the species in the garden are younger than 200 years), but the result is so much more than a living history lesson. The tranquil atmosphere of a much-loved and nurtured garden is evident at every turn, bed and border.
Come and enjoy Cowbridge Physic garden. It is just 12 miles to the west of Cardiff. A short stroll from the High Street, it is opposite Holy Cross Church and the ancient Grammar School building. Paths are flat, pedestrian access is easy.