The Jephson Gardens

In the heart of Royal Leamington Spa, the Jephson Gardens stand as a testament to the town's rich history and horticultural heritage. These formal gardens, coupled with a lush grassed park, offer a serene escape for both locals and tourists alike. Nestled along the Parade, with the tranquil River Leam flowing to their south, Jephson Gardens are a true gem in the town's crown.

A Walk Through History

The origins of Jephson Gardens date back to 1834, when the land was owned by Edward Willes. Initially farmland, the area was transformed into a public garden at Willes' behest. The gardens were accessible for free early in the mornings, but for the rest of the day, entry was restricted to paying visitors and patrons of a nearby spa bath house. This exclusivity made the gardens a popular spot for the wealthy to take the air and be seen.

Over the years, the gardens expanded and evolved. In 1843, significant improvements were made, including the leveling of the ground and the excavation of an ornamental lake. By 1846, the gardens were renamed Jephson Gardens in honor of Dr. Henry Jephson, a local physician who promoted the healing properties of Leamington's spa waters and built houses for the town's poor residents. A Corinthian-style temple, featuring a large marble statue of Dr. Jephson by Birmingham sculptor Peter Hollins, was added in 1849.

Monuments and Memorials

Jephson Gardens is home to several notable monuments and memorials. In 1869, a fountain dedicated to Dr. John Hitchman, another local philanthropist, was erected near the boundary with the town's main street. This was followed by a grey granite obelisk in 1875, commemorating Edward Willes. In 1925, a clock tower was dedicated to Alderman William Davis, who served as mayor of the town three times. All these memorials still stand today, adding to the historical ambiance of the gardens.

Twentieth-Century Transformations

The 20th century brought further developments to the park. Tea rooms were opened in 1899, later repurposed as an aviary. From 1901 to 1903, Mill Gardens, Mill Bridge, and the boathouse were developed on the opposite side of the river. A new bandstand was built in 1909 to replace the original one, which had become a noise nuisance to neighbors.

In 1926, two additional features were added: a clock tower in the eastern half of the gardens and a fountain for the lake. A second fountain was installed in 1927, modeled after the fountains at Hampton Court. These additions enhanced the gardens' appeal, making them a popular venue for flower shows, firework displays, balloon ascents, and band concerts.

Modern-Day Jephson Gardens

Despite a period of neglect following World War II, Jephson Gardens underwent a significant revitalization starting in the late 1990s. The Warwick District Council secured a £3 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, which was used to restore and enhance the gardens. The outdated children's play area by the river was replaced with a new one in Mill Gardens. The disused aviary was transformed into a café, and the Czech War and Jephson memorials were cleaned and restored.

The centerpiece of the redevelopment was the construction of a sub-tropical glasshouse, housing exotic plant life. The glasshouse also features The Restaurant In The Park and a teaching studio used by Warwickshire College students. Additional improvements included upgraded public toilets, resurfaced paths, and the creation of a sensory garden.

Recognition and Awards

The investment in Jephson Gardens has paid off, earning the park numerous accolades. In 2004, Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens were voted Best Park in Britain by the Royal Horticultural Society. The gardens have also won the prestigious Green Flag award annually since 2006, recognizing them as one of the best green spaces in the country. Additionally, Jephson Gardens has been designated a Green Heritage Site by English Heritage and features several Grade II listed buildings.

A Hub of Culture and Entertainment

Jephson Gardens has also made its mark in popular culture. In 1970, the gardens hosted a concert by the legendary rock band Black Sabbath. The Jephson Memorial was featured on the cover of the Ocean Colour Scene album Moseley Shoals, and the park's underpass appeared on The Shapes' album Songs For Sensible People. More recently, scenes for the BBC remake of Upstairs, Downstairs were filmed in the park, as well as the movie You, Me and Him starring David Tennant and Lucy Punch.

Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Jephson Gardens in Royal Leamington Spa offers something for everyone. With its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene, the gardens are a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this charming town.