Gwent properties taking part in the National Garden Scheme

South Wales Argus

04-05-2025

The family-run flower farm, situated around a renovated Tudor cottage and barn in Langstone, will be open to the public on Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29.
Katharine Noteley runs the flower farm Little Caerlicyn (Image: Supplied) It offers stunning views over the Severn Estuary, wildflower meadows, ancient trees, and a peaceful woodland walk.
Katharine Noteley, owner of Little Caerlicyn, described her motivation for opening the garden to the public: 'It feels so important to me. It's such a beautiful part of the world, and I feel very lucky to be here, so I want to share it with others, not keep it a secret.'
Little Caerlicyn (Image: Supplied)
Little Caerlicyn is one of more than 3,500 private gardens across the UK taking part in the National Garden Scheme this year.
The charity has raised £74 million for health and nursing charities such as Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie and Hospice UK through garden openings, refreshments and events.
Ms Notley added that she had followed the National Garden Scheme for years through her family: 'Ever since we've been here, I wanted to get involved. I've been aware of it for a long time.'
This dream became a reality when she opened the farm to the public last year, raising nearly £2,000 and hosting more than 100 visitors. 'We went through 18 cakes,' she said with a laugh.
Little Caerlicyn opened to the public last year and raised almost £2,000 (Image: Supplied)
Founded in 1927, the National Garden Scheme has grown into one of the UK's most significant charity supporters, whilst promoting the positive impact gardens can have on individuals' wellbeing.
Beyond raising charitable funds, the scheme actively promotes the benefits of time spent in nature and funds community gardening projects across the country.
For Ms Notley, flower farming is more than a business, it's a philosophy rooted in care and sustainability.
'We've inherited this space for such a short amount of time, I want to add to it, not take away from it,' she said. 'It's not ours to take from, it's ours to be a part of.'
Alongside the farm itself, visitors will be able to enjoy homemade cakes, teas, and coffees in the courtyard, explore the grounds, and even take part in activities such as willow weaving, essential oil making, and sewing. A small selection of freshly cut locally grown flowers will also be available to buy on the day.
Little Caerlicyn (Image: Supplied)
Entry to Little Caerlicyn is £5 for adults, with children admitted free of charge. Pre-booking is not required, but visitors are encouraged to check the National Garden Scheme website for the latest opening times and accessibility information.
The atmosphere promises to be relaxed and welcoming, making it an ideal outing for garden lovers, families, or anyone seeking a peaceful escape into nature.
Wenallt Isaf is a hillside garden (Image: Supplied)
Further north, yet another personal story unfolds at Wenallt Isaf, a hillside garden that reflects the dedication behind the National Garden Scheme.
Perched 650 feet on a north-facing hillside, Wenallt Isaf is a three-acre garden with sweeping views across the surrounding countryside.
It has been lovingly developed by Debbie Field and her husband over the past 12 years.
Wenallt Isaf has been developed over 12 years by Debbie Field and her husband (Image: Supplied)
The garden is rich with life and character, with bluebells blossoming in the spring, towering hydrangeas in the summer, and wildlife that ranges from green woodpeckers to chickens.
This year, Wenallt Isaf opens to the public on Sunday, June 1, for one day only, with additional group visits available by arrangement between May and October. Guests can expect stunning views, peaceful surroundings and homemade cake served on the lawn.
Wenallt Isaf (Image: Supplied)
Beyond Wenallt Isaf, Mrs Field plays a key role in making the National Garden Scheme thrive in the region.
As county organiser for Gwent, she helps coordinate garden openings, offers support to new participants, and ensures the continued success of a scheme that last year raised more than £50,000 locally for nursing and health charities.
Wenallt Isaf is opening for one day only (Image: Supplied)
She's also encouraging more people in Wales to get involved with the charity, especially in the Newport area.
'We'd love to have more gardens for people to enjoy,' she said. 'It doesn't need to be huge, either a small plot with interesting flowers or even neighbours combining gardens. As long as it's got something to offer, it's worth sharing.'
Mrs Field began opening Wenallt Isaf 12 years ago, 'as a dare,' she joked.
She then took on the role of county organiser around three years ago. Since then, she's helped welcome new garden owners into the scheme and supported national fundraising efforts. 'We're Macmillan's biggest single donor, and we've supported them for over 14 years,' she explained proudly.
Her dual role as both gardener and organiser makes Wenallt Isaf not only a beautiful destination, but also a hub for the wider NGS story in Wales.
The National Garden Scheme's reach across Wales is significant. Susan Paynton, Regional Chair for Wales and The Marches, is ensuring that Welsh gardens and communities are represented at a national level.
'As chair, I support our county organisers across Wales and represent garden owners at national board meetings,' she explained, to ensure Wales receives the funding and attention it deserves.
Having volunteered with the charity for several years, Paynton said she continues to be inspired by the scheme's impact. 'When you see what good is done and what has been achieved, it's quite extraordinary', such as the £2.5 million raised and donated to the Royal Glamorgan Hospital's palliative care unit.
Whether you're there for the flowers, the fresh air, or the homemade cake, these gardens offer a reminder of what grows when communities come together.