Quex Gardens is a verdant space with sweeping lawns, woodland, flower borders and a walled garden. Our Head Gardener, Sue Harris has a vision for the garden. Supported by The Powell-Cotton Trust, the gardens will evolve to become a place that is safe and enjoyable for people of all ages and needs. We will work with our local friends and partners to make space for diversifying our volunteer team and to develop unique garden experiences such as ‘ground to table’ cooking and feasting.
The start of this new era for Quex Gardens will be the restoration of the Winter Garden. You may have noticed it, tucked back from the path at the end of the woodland walk. It is one of a range of glass houses that make up the historic walled garden at Quex House. An important feature of the garden, it was installed at a time when the family wanted to create a space in which they could house frost-sensitive plants and access their orchid collection.
In the 1930’s the walled garden was run as a commercial market garden and the expanding museum had removed a large conservatory to allow for further galleries to be built. It is an unusual structure, mainly as it was moved and re-built. It does not have the same historic function as the other glasshouses, namely the vine houses, cucumber pit and orchid house, and was a significant addition involving removing the corner wall of the walled garden and replacing the lean-to glass which had previously been there. As with other alterations to the garden, the addition of this large ‘show’ glasshouse reflected the changing needs of the family. It was a practical change too, accessible directly from the pleasure grounds without the need to negotiate the vineries and orchids.
Work has now begun to repair and restore the structure of this glass house. When complete it will be safe, secure, heated and visually stunning.
Update Spring 2022
The restoration is almost complete! Currently the winter garden is used as an indoor space for our volunteer groups to shelter from the weather and relax on their breaks however we have plans to host dining events with local green Michelin star restaurant, Angelas of Margate. Keep an eye on our events page for our next event!
Project Partners
Head Gardener
Greg Redwood
Trustee
Powell-Cotton Trust
@powellcottonmuseum
Rainy day blues? Not at the Sunshine Project. Our amazing Learning Team kept our garden volunteers dry and happy with a fun "Thunder Drum" craft session. We painted by the cosy fire in our beautiful Winter Garden glass house. Who needs sunshine when you`ve got great company, creativity and tea and biscuits on hand… if you are looking for engaging workshops, get in touch with us.
The Sunshine Project is in receipt of a grant from AIM Connected Communities. AIM Connected Communities is funded by the DCMS `Know Your Neighbourhood Fund` through Arts Council England.
@Aimmuseums @dcmsgovuk and @aceagrams #QuexGardens #SunshineProjectSunday
@VisitKent @VisitThanet @bestkentattractions
Rainy day blues? Not at the Sunshine Project. Our amazing Learning Team kept our garden volunteers dry and happy with a fun "Thunder Drum" craft session. We painted by the cosy fire in our beautiful Winter Garden glass house. Who needs sunshine when you`ve got great company, creativity and tea and biscuits on hand… if you are looking for engaging workshops, get in touch with us.
The Sunshine Project is in receipt of a grant from AIM Connected Communities. AIM Connected Communities is funded by the DCMS `Know Your Neighbourhood Fund` through Arts Council England.
@Aimmuseums @dcmsgovuk and @aceagrams #QuexGardens #SunshineProjectSunday
@VisitKent @VisitThanet @bestkentattractions
The #SunshineProject isn`t just about volunteering, it`s about belonging! In this video, our volunteers tell us what the project means to them - inclusivity, community, purpose, and even making new friends. Want to be part of something special and accessible that helps you develop your skills? Then reach out to our Gardens Community Engagement Officer sarah-jayne.rufaeel@powell-cottonmuseum.org
The Sunshine Project is in receipt of a grant from AIM Connected Communities. AIM Connected Communities is funded by the DCMS Know Your Neighbourhood Fund through Arts Council England @Aimmuseums @dcmsgovuk and @aceagrams #QuexGardens #SunshineProjectSunday
@Visit Kent @Visit Thanet- Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate @Kent Attractions
The #SunshineProject isn`t just about volunteering, it`s about belonging! In this video, our volunteers tell us what the project means to them - inclusivity, community, purpose, and even making new friends. Want to be part of something special and accessible that helps you develop your skills? Then reach out to our Gardens Community Engagement Officer sarah-jayne.rufaeel@powell-cottonmuseum.org
The Sunshine Project is in receipt of a grant from AIM Connected Communities. AIM Connected Communities is funded by the DCMS Know Your Neighbourhood Fund through Arts Council England @Aimmuseums @dcmsgovuk and @aceagrams #QuexGardens #SunshineProjectSunday
@Visit Kent @Visit Thanet- Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate @Kent Attractions
Spring has officially sprung! Stroll through our enchanting museum gardens this weekend where you’ll discover vibrant blooms, serene woodland pathways, and birdsong sounds.
#FirstDayofSpring #MuseumGardens #NatureInspiration #QuexGardens #VisitKent #VisitThanet #SpringHasSprung
@visitkent @visitthanet @goodjourneyuk
Spring has officially sprung! Stroll through our enchanting museum gardens this weekend where you’ll discover vibrant blooms, serene woodland pathways, and birdsong sounds.
#FirstDayofSpring #MuseumGardens #NatureInspiration #QuexGardens #VisitKent #VisitThanet #SpringHasSprung
@visitkent @visitthanet @goodjourneyuk
On Friday 8th March, we welcomed special guests and organisations from across Thanet and Swale to celebrate the launch of the #SunshineProject.
The Sunshine Project is funded by a generous grant from AIM Connected Communities and will offer life-enriching opportunities for adults with learning disabilities, mental health challenges and those who are socially isolated.
From gardening to nature photography, we have something for everyone. Perhaps you would like to take part in an art or well-being workshop? Whilst we are brimming with ideas, we would love to hear from you too. Comment below with what workshops you would like to see. AIM Connected Communities is funded by DCMS Know Your Neighbourhood Fund.
#QuexGardens #SunshineProjectSunday
@Aimmuseums @dcmsgovuk and @aceagrams @visitkent @visitthanet @bestkentattractions
On Friday 8th March, we welcomed special guests and organisations from across Thanet and Swale to celebrate the launch of the #SunshineProject.
The Sunshine Project is funded by a generous grant from AIM Connected Communities and will offer life-enriching opportunities for adults with learning disabilities, mental health challenges and those who are socially isolated.
From gardening to nature photography, we have something for everyone. Perhaps you would like to take part in an art or well-being workshop? Whilst we are brimming with ideas, we would love to hear from you too. Comment below with what workshops you would like to see. AIM Connected Communities is funded by DCMS Know Your Neighbourhood Fund.
#QuexGardens #SunshineProjectSunday
@Aimmuseums @dcmsgovuk and @aceagrams @visitkent @visitthanet @bestkentattractions
Calling all art enthusiasts! Visit us on Saturday 23rd March, from 11am to 3pm for an Open Studio.
Meet our talented Artist-in-Residence, Julia Ellen Lancaster, in our newly refurbished garden studio, thanks to our incredible volunteers!
Leave your mark on the `Public Pot` at the studio, unleash your creativity with clay, and turn your imagination into reality. Whether you want to make your own version of an Easter egg cup or a mini spring flower inspired by the garden, the possibilities are endless. Included with your standard admission ticket.
This will also be an opportunity to ask Julia questions about her plans for future projects and her involvement with the Sunshine Project! #ArtistInResidence #QuexGardens
@visitthanet @visitkent @kentattractions
Calling all art enthusiasts! Visit us on Saturday 23rd March, from 11am to 3pm for an Open Studio.
Meet our talented Artist-in-Residence, Julia Ellen Lancaster, in our newly refurbished garden studio, thanks to our incredible volunteers!
Leave your mark on the `Public Pot` at the studio, unleash your creativity with clay, and turn your imagination into reality. Whether you want to make your own version of an Easter egg cup or a mini spring flower inspired by the garden, the possibilities are endless. Included with your standard admission ticket.
This will also be an opportunity to ask Julia questions about her plans for future projects and her involvement with the Sunshine Project! #ArtistInResidence #QuexGardens
@visitthanet @visitkent @kentattractions
Is there anything more delicious and satisfying than a bowl of fresh soup after a morning of working outside in nature? (Especially if the ingredients have been handpicked for you by Thanet Community Day Services, and then created by the wonderfully talented local restaurant @angelas_of_margate!)
Providing the lunch at our Productive Greenhouse workshop this weekend, you`ll break bread with your fellow gardeners and the Quex Gardens team as you learn how to grow tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers- from picking out the best varieties, preparing compost mixes to tips on germination you will leave with all the knowledge you need to get your garden blooming and start your very own homegrown soups in no time!
*Last chance to book - head to the website to book today! Ticket sales end on Wednesday 13th March at 5pm.
#GardenWorkshops #QuexGardens #KentGardenWorkshops #ThanetGardens
@bestkentattractions @visitkent @visitthanet
Is there anything more delicious and satisfying than a bowl of fresh soup after a morning of working outside in nature? (Especially if the ingredients have been handpicked for you by Thanet Community Day Services, and then created by the wonderfully talented local restaurant @angelas_of_margate!)
Providing the lunch at our Productive Greenhouse workshop this weekend, you`ll break bread with your fellow gardeners and the Quex Gardens team as you learn how to grow tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers- from picking out the best varieties, preparing compost mixes to tips on germination you will leave with all the knowledge you need to get your garden blooming and start your very own homegrown soups in no time!
*Last chance to book - head to the website to book today! Ticket sales end on Wednesday 13th March at 5pm.
#GardenWorkshops #QuexGardens #KentGardenWorkshops #ThanetGardens
@bestkentattractions @visitkent @visitthanet
Want to get outside more? Stay active and enjoy a bit of time in the fresh air? Always fancied having a go at gardening but don`t have the skills or experience to get started?
This Sunday our `Productive Greenhouse` Workshop might be the answer!
Meet like-minded gardeners and together learn how to make the most of growing plants and food under glass with our expert gardening team here at Quex Gardens. Get your hands dirty with practical demos and workshops and learn tips and tips to help your garden thrive!
Your ticket also includes a delicious hearty lunch in our beautiful Winter Garden Glasshouse. Head to the website to find out more! Ticket sales end on Wednesday 13th March.
#GardenWorkshops #QuexGardens #Kentgardenworkshops
@visitkent @visitthanet @kentattractions
Want to get outside more? Stay active and enjoy a bit of time in the fresh air? Always fancied having a go at gardening but don`t have the skills or experience to get started?
This Sunday our `Productive Greenhouse` Workshop might be the answer!
Meet like-minded gardeners and together learn how to make the most of growing plants and food under glass with our expert gardening team here at Quex Gardens. Get your hands dirty with practical demos and workshops and learn tips and tips to help your garden thrive!
Your ticket also includes a delicious hearty lunch in our beautiful Winter Garden Glasshouse. Head to the website to find out more! Ticket sales end on Wednesday 13th March.
#GardenWorkshops #QuexGardens #Kentgardenworkshops
@visitkent @visitthanet @kentattractions
FREE ENTRY TODAY!
This Mother’s Day let`s celebrate all the incredible women who have shown us love and guidance, whether they are mothers, grandmothers, or motherly figures. Enjoy a day of culture and creativity at the museum today courtesy of @powthanet.
Bring the whole family along for a memorable experience that will create lasting memories.
#FreeEntry #MothersDay #ReimaginingtheMuseum
@visitkent @visitthanet @kentattractions
FREE ENTRY TODAY!
This Mother’s Day let`s celebrate all the incredible women who have shown us love and guidance, whether they are mothers, grandmothers, or motherly figures. Enjoy a day of culture and creativity at the museum today courtesy of @powthanet.
Bring the whole family along for a memorable experience that will create lasting memories.
#FreeEntry #MothersDay #ReimaginingtheMuseum
@visitkent @visitthanet @kentattractions
We continue to celebrate #WomensHistoryMonth with our Female of the Species tours every weekend throughout March. Embark on a journey of empowerment and discovery with our female-focused tour, where you`ll uncover the surprising pursuit of women as hunters and collectors as well as learning about the artisans that created our newest collection, Nambian Narratives. Tours are included with your standard admission ticket.
#WomensHistoryMonth #InternationalWomensDay #Learning #ReimaginingTheMuseum #MuseumMaker
@visitkent @visitthanet @kentattractions
We continue to celebrate #WomensHistoryMonth with our Female of the Species tours every weekend throughout March. Embark on a journey of empowerment and discovery with our female-focused tour, where you`ll uncover the surprising pursuit of women as hunters and collectors as well as learning about the artisans that created our newest collection, Nambian Narratives. Tours are included with your standard admission ticket.
#WomensHistoryMonth #InternationalWomensDay #Learning #ReimaginingTheMuseum #MuseumMaker
@visitkent @visitthanet @kentattractions
Join the garden team to master the technique of growing under glass!
Watch our expert demonstrations on sowing and growing a variety of delicious vegetables to make the most of your garden. From planting tips to harvest tricks, we`ve got you covered every step of the way. Learn how to create the perfect compost mixes and germination tips to help your plants thrive. Gain knowledge on how to sow stunning ornamental annuals for your pots and flower beds with our expert advice. Transform your outdoor space into a vibrant oasis with a colourful array of blooms that will dazzle all season long.
Your ticket also includes a delicious hearty lunch in our beautiful Winter Garden Glasshouse. Book today @productivegreenhouse
#QuexGardens #Learning
@visitkent @visitthanet @kentattraction
Join the garden team to master the technique of growing under glass!
Watch our expert demonstrations on sowing and growing a variety of delicious vegetables to make the most of your garden. From planting tips to harvest tricks, we`ve got you covered every step of the way. Learn how to create the perfect compost mixes and germination tips to help your plants thrive. Gain knowledge on how to sow stunning ornamental annuals for your pots and flower beds with our expert advice. Transform your outdoor space into a vibrant oasis with a colourful array of blooms that will dazzle all season long.
Your ticket also includes a delicious hearty lunch in our beautiful Winter Garden Glasshouse. Book today @productivegreenhouse
#QuexGardens #Learning
@visitkent @visitthanet @kentattraction
Our amazing volunteers have shared their reasons for being a part of the #SunshineProject. The Sunshine Project offers volunteering opportunities, community engagement and social connectivity for adults with learning disabilities, and/or mild physical disabilities, mental health issues or social isolation.
Curious to learn more about the project and how you can get involved? Reach out to Sarah-Jayne Rufaeel at Sarah-Jayne.Rufaeel@powell-cottonmuseum.org
The Sunshine Project is in receipt of a grant from AIM connected communities. AIM Connected Communities is funded by the DCMS Know Your Neighbourhood Fund through Arts Council England. @Aimmuseums @dcmsgovuk and @aceagrams
#QuexGardens #SunshineProjectSunday
@visitkent @visitthanet @kentattractions
Our amazing volunteers have shared their reasons for being a part of the #SunshineProject. The Sunshine Project offers volunteering opportunities, community engagement and social connectivity for adults with learning disabilities, and/or mild physical disabilities, mental health issues or social isolation.
Curious to learn more about the project and how you can get involved? Reach out to Sarah-Jayne Rufaeel at Sarah-Jayne.Rufaeel@powell-cottonmuseum.org
The Sunshine Project is in receipt of a grant from AIM connected communities. AIM Connected Communities is funded by the DCMS Know Your Neighbourhood Fund through Arts Council England. @Aimmuseums @dcmsgovuk and @aceagrams
#QuexGardens #SunshineProjectSunday
@visitkent @visitthanet @kentattractions
As part of the Sunshine project members of the garden team recently took part in a clay workshop led by Jayne Wright @ThanetTilesOfJoy and our resident artist, Julia Ellen-Lancaster.
Starting with identical balls of clay each person created an individual tile inspired by things which brought them joy. The result is a set of tiles which are different from each other. Participants discovered ways to sculpt and mould their designs with inspiration from the garden as well as personal flights of fancy!
Discover these incredible works from our talented team at our open days from Saturday 2nd March to Sunday 1st April.
@visitkent @visitthanet @ketnattractions
#Learning #QuexGardens #ReimaginingTheMuseum
The #SunshineProject receives a grant from AIM Connected Communities. AIM Connected Communities is funded by the DCMS Know Your Neighbourhood Fund through Arts Council England. @Aimuseums, @dcmsgovuk and @aceagrams
As part of the Sunshine project members of the garden team recently took part in a clay workshop led by Jayne Wright @ThanetTilesOfJoy and our resident artist, Julia Ellen-Lancaster.
Starting with identical balls of clay each person created an individual tile inspired by things which brought them joy. The result is a set of tiles which are different from each other. Participants discovered ways to sculpt and mould their designs with inspiration from the garden as well as personal flights of fancy!
Discover these incredible works from our talented team at our open days from Saturday 2nd March to Sunday 1st April.
@visitkent @visitthanet @ketnattractions
#Learning #QuexGardens #ReimaginingTheMuseum
The #SunshineProject receives a grant from AIM Connected Communities. AIM Connected Communities is funded by the DCMS Know Your Neighbourhood Fund through Arts Council England. @Aimuseums, @dcmsgovuk and @aceagrams
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