A Springtime Secret: Discovering the Magic of Evenley Wood Gardens
While the wildflowers are beginning to stir here at Meadow Lake Glamping, we recently took a short trip just down the road to one of our favourite local haunts: Evenley Wood Gardens.
If you’re looking for the perfect day trip during your stay on the farm, this 60-acre privately owned woodland sanctuary is a must-visit. Whether you are staying in the elegant Swan Lakeview or the cozy Hedgehog Hollow, Evenley offers that same sense of a peaceful setting—just with a few more ancient trees!
A Garden for Every Season
We visited during the height of snowdrop and camellia season, where the woodland floor looks like it’s been dusted with icing sugar. However, the beauty of Evenley is its evolution. Much like our own medieval lakes, the gardens shift with the calendar:
- Spring: A carpet of bulbs and delicate blossoms.
- Summer: Lush greenery and the famous lily woods.
- Autumn: A fiery display of gold and red maples.
- Winter: Architectural trees and the crisp scent of pine.
Wild Adventures for Little Explorers
For those staying in the Robin Roundhouse, you’ll know we love a bit of industrious outdoor fun. Evenley is home to a fantastic Forest School and a playground with a wonderful backstory.
We actually attended a session to help build the playground! It was such an empowering experience for the kids; they were taught to use saws and hammers, given free rein to embellish the climbing frames however they saw fit. It’s the kind of “wild” play we champion here at the farm—authentic, muddy, and incredibly rewarding.
Troll Bridges and Paddling Streams
The gardens are crisscrossed with streams and bridges of every shape and size. There’s a sturdy stone bridge that looks like the perfect home for a grumpy troll, and simple wooden planks that feel like a tightrope adventure.
During our walk, we spotted a whole family in full waterproofs paddling the length of a stream—a reminder that nature is meant to be played in! Luckily, our dog managed to stay on dry land this time, which made the car journey back to the glamping site much easier on the upholstery.
Culture Under the Canopy
At the heart of the woods lies a lovely café, perfect for a mid-walk recharge with lunch or snacks. But Evenley isn’t just about walking; it’s a hub for the community.
- Family Fun: They host brilliant Easter and Halloween trails.
- Evening Magic: In the summer, the woods transform into an outdoor theatre. We recently saw a fantastic rendition of The Importance of Being Earnest under the trees.
- Wellness: You can often find yoga or wellness retreats taking place in the deep quiet of the woodland.
Plan Your Visit
Evenley Wood Gardens is just a short drive from Meadow Lake. It’s the perfect place to tire out the kids (and the dog) before returning to the yurt to watch the sunset with Pipkin Nightwhisper.
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Feature
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The Details
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Travel Time
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A quick 15–20 minute drive from the farm gate.
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Peak Bloom
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Bluebells: Late April to mid-May. Bonus: Look for Magnolias in early May.
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Fuel Up
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Uncle Geordie’s Wood Kitchen: Barista coffee, cake, and wood-fired specials.
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Pet Policy
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Dogs welcome, but must remain on a lead at all times.
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What to Pack
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Sturdy boots (the paths are "natural") and a full phone battery.
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