The Mary Challis House and Garden

The Mary Challis Garden, tended by volunteers, is a peaceful haven full of flowers, shrubs and perennials with beautiful mature trees, winding secret paths, and a pond with viewing platform – as well as plenty of benches, and a summerhouse to take shelter in! The wildflower meadow in the centre of the main lawn is the centrepiece of the garden in July and August.

The rest of the garden is meadow, woodland, a winter walk and a wild area at the bottom. The refurbished vine-house produces a huge crop of tiny black grapes each year, while three beehives are cared for by the beekeeper.

The house is open to the public during special events and museum opening times, which are displayed on the notice board. Group visits to the house and garden at times other than opening times can be arranged; download the booking form to request a visit.

When Mary left her house in trust for the people of Sawston, she also asked for a museum to be set up inside the house. One room displays a representation of a late Victorian parlour. The museum is open at the same times as the garden, as long as there are enough volunteers to staff it.