FAQ's

?  How do I get to Capel Manor?

A  Capel Manor is situated just off junction 25 of the M25 and the A10       
     Southbound. Click on “Visiting the Gardens” for further details.

? Is there free car parking?

A Free car parking is available within the grounds by the Visitors Centre, 
   except on busy show days when we also use the overflow car park.

? Are the gardens accessible for people with disabilities?

A Yes, there is disabled access around most parts of the estate     including
    toilets and the restaurant. The grounds are mainly on one
    level and the paths are gravel, tarmac or stone. Most of the gardens
    are accessible to wheelchair users. There is a Sensory Garden and
    gardens specifically designed for wheelchair users. Disabled toilet
    facilities are also available. There are audio loop facilities at     Reception.
                       
? Can I hire a wheelchair or motorised scooter?

A Yes, there are a limited number of motorised scooters and     wheelchairs 
    available to borrow. Please book in advance.

? If I visit the gardens with a carer do they get a concession on
   the entry price?

A Yes, carers gain free entry. This excludes any other offers and is
    limited to one carer per disabled visitor, unless under exceptional
    circumstances.

? Can I bring my dog?

A Yes, but it must be on a lead at all times, please. 

? What catering facilities are there at the gardens?

A  Our Terrace Restaurant serves a variety of hot and cold refreshments
    as well as ice creams and is open throughout the day, usually until
    5:00pm. Mobile units serving food are also available during shows     and events. Special menus are available for groups, if booked in     advance.

? Can I bring a picnic?

A You are welcome to bring your own refreshments and picnics and we 
    are sure you will help us keep our grounds tidy.

? Can I buy plants flowers and other gardening items at Capel?

A The Hessayon Centre (Our Visitors Centre) has a garden gift shop,     with plant sales during the summer season.

? Are there baby changing facilities?

A Yes, there are baby changing facilities in all of our public toilets.

? Are there banking facilities at Capel?

A No, there is a cash machine at the local BP and Esso garages.

? What facilities are there for children at Capel Manor Gardens?

A We have 30 acres of richly planted themed gardens and The “Jungle
    Gym Garden” was designed by Kim Wilde, specifically to appeal to
    children. There is also a woodland walk, an Italianate Maze and a
    “Animal Corner” - where you can see the animals cared for by our
    students, including Kune Kune pigs, goats, poultry and rabbits. We     also have resident Clydesdale heavy horses, which you may see     working or exercising in the grounds. Many of our shows and events     include children’s activities especially our Kiddies’ Capers weekend in     June each year and Christmas Carousel.

? Do you have a programme of shows and special events at the
   Gardens?

A Yes, we have a calendar of events from March to December, including
    gardening related shows, children’s activities, evening concerts and
    outdoor theatre. We also have a programme of “Escorted Day Trips”
    throughout the summer. Click on “Shows and Events”.

?  Are their guided tours of the Gardens?

A  Yes, these are available for groups or 20 or more these must be 
     booked in advance. Special rates apply.

? Is it possible to buy a season ticket to the Gardens?

A Yes, from as little as £25, you can join “Friends of Capel Manor” and
    have unlimited access to our 30 acres of gardens throughout the year.      Click on “Friends of Capel Manor”.

? Are groups welcome at the Gardens?

A Yes, special group rates apply. There is free coach parking and
    Coach drivers are admitted into the grounds free of charge and
    receive a £5 meal voucher.

? Can I bring a school group to visit to Capel Manor Gardens?
   
 A Yes, more information can be found at     www.capel.ac.uk/Gardens/school_visits.html or by calling 08456 122     122 and speaking with Diane Morris.
 
? What does Gardening Which? do at Capel Manor gardens?

A Gardening Which? is part of the Which? Consumer Organisation.     Within their grounds at Capel Manor, the Gardening Which? team     propagate thousands of plants every year. They independently conduct     twenty or more garden trials each year including new seed grown     plants vegetable varieties, fruit, shrubs, herbaceous perennials and     gardening equipment.

? Can I hire Capel Manor as a venue for corporate hospitality or for a
    private function?

A If you’re looking for a venue for your meeting, product launch or
    Party, please contact Julie Ryan to discuss your requirements, 
    Tel 08456 122 122.