Bridge End Gardens are a grade II* listed group of seven linked ornamental gardens in Saffron Walden; which are open to the public free of charge.
The gardens were set out in 1840 by Atkinson Francis Gibson, and in 1870 his son Francis Gibson reworked the gardens and planted the yew hedge maze in the Italian-Renaissance style.
In all there are seven interlinked gardens to explore, including a scented rose garden, a walled garden, Dutch garden, a wilderness woodland area, and tranquil Poets corner. In every part of the garden there is something fresh to draw the eye, be it a statue of the 18th century or the picturesque summerhouse of 1840 which borders the main lawn. The small, delightful pavilion dates from around the same period; and like many of the gardens focal points, has been extensively restored back to its’ former glory.
Please note The Maze and Kitchen Gardens are generally open at the following times:-
· 9am - 3pm Monday to Thursday
· 9am - 1pm Friday
· 10am - 4pm Saturday and Sunday
· However this may vary depending on season or other circumstances, so if you definitely want to see the maze on your visit please confirm that it will be open by phoning the Tourist Information on 01799 524002.
· NB the Maze and Kitchen Gardens are closed for the whole of the month of January each year for refurbishment.
Bridge End Gardens close at 4pm on Christmas Eve each year and re-open at 11am on 26 December, Boxing Day.
The entrance to the maze area is gained through richly ornamented and impressive wrought iron gates. The maze was originally embellished with statues, columns, a pavilion and other architectural garden ornaments, some of which placed false emphasis on paths leading to dead ends to deceive those seeking the central goal. The design has a single direct route to the centre.
Originally, an elevated platform existed in the centre which allowed views over the maze, this was
reinstated in July 2000 with donations made by visitors and supporters of Bridge End Garden.
Records show that by 1905 the maze was open to the public. By paying sixpence the head gardener would
unlock the gates and allow entrance.
By 1949 the maze had fallen into neglect and by 1983 it was little more than an overgrown spinney. In 1984 a programme of research and restoration was put in hand and an archaeological investigation was undertaken to supplement the limited knowledge of the maze and its construction.
The original maze design was marked out later that year. The paths were reconstructed, together with the
banks which were subsequently planted in the December with over 1000 yews.
At midday on 13 July, 1991, the maze was officially reopened by Mr Anthony Fry, Great - Great Grandson
of Francis Gibson, for the enjoyment and delight of future generations.
There are four questions to answer in order to find the final coordinates – the answers are still possible to find even if the maze and kitchen gardens are not open. However it will not be possible to do this cache when the whole gardens are closed as stated above from Christmas Eve to Boxing Day.
The final cache is NOT accessible from within the gardens; you will need to leave the gardens by one of the exits before finding your way to the cache.
Final coordinates can be found at N52.01.(K-B)(H+G)(A-C) E000.1F.EJD