About Us
Nestled on the edge of Wrexham, Erlas Victorian Walled Garden is a cherished oasis often referred to as “The lungs of Wrexham.” Our garden is a living tapestry of history, community, and horticultural therapy. Join us in experiencing the tranquility and heritage of this remarkable place.
A Glimpse into Our History
Erlas Victorian Walled Garden is a charity established in 2002 by local volunteers and supporters who wanted to breathe new life into this historic place. Set within the former Erlas Park, the garden is rich in heritage and natural beauty.
Although the garden follows a Victorian design, its roots stretch back to the Georgian era. The brick walls and carefully planned layout reflect the gardening practices of the 19th century. Today, those same walls surround a welcoming space where the community can cultivate, learn, and grow together.
Our Location’s Rich Heritage
The garden’s location is steeped in history. Erlas Park itself was once part of a grand estate, with the walled garden serving as a functional and ornamental space. Over the years, the park has evolved, but the garden has remained a focal point, a place where the past and present converge. Today, it stands as a vibrant community hub, where the spirit of Victorian gardening lives on.
Drone Footage from 2025
Key Features of the Garden
Historic Mulberry Tree
One of the garden’s most treasured features is our historic mulberry tree, believed to be between 250 and 300 years old. This remarkable tree is a living link to the past, offering shade and timeless beauty. With its gnarled branches and rich foliage, it also provides a home for local wildlife, making it a focal point of both natural and historical significance.
Goat Willow Tree
Veteran trees like this are a sanctuary in their own right, supporting a wide range of life. Their branches and hollows provide shelter for birds and invertebrates, while fungi, ferns, and lichens thrive along their bark.
The foliage of the Goat Willow, in particular, is an important food source for many species. Caterpillars of moths such as the sallow kitten, sallow clearwing, dusky clearwing, and lunar hornet clearwing all rely on it, as does the striking purple emperor butterfly.
Recently, under the guidance of Wrexham Council’s Arboricultural Manager and a specialist consultant, the tree received careful management to ensure its survival. Thanks to this work, the Goat Willow is thriving, with healthy new growth visible throughout the canopy.
Education Room
At the top of the garden, near the entrance, stands our Education Room—a symbol of our commitment to learning and community engagement. Here, we host craft workshops and courses that give participants the chance to develop new skills in a welcoming and inspiring setting. A large viewing window offers a striking outlook over the garden below.
The Glasshouse
Next to the Education Room stands our large glasshouse, where the magic of plant propagation begins. Inside, countless young plants, vegetables, and flowers take root in pots and trays. The glasshouse provides ideal growing conditions, allowing seedlings to develop strength and vitality before being transplanted into the wider garden—helping to keep our green spaces vibrant and productive.
Polytunnels
The garden is home to several polytunnels, positioned in both the west and east gardens. These structures provide the perfect environment for a wide variety of vegetables, extending the growing season and shielding tender plants from harsh weather. Step inside, and you’ll find a thriving display of produce—an example of how modern gardening techniques can enhance and sustain our work.
Orchard
Our orchard is a charming part of the garden, filled with a variety of fruit trees cared for by our dedicated gardeners. It provides us with fresh, organic fruit throughout the year and offers visitors a peaceful place to stroll, enjoying seasonal blossoms and ripening fruit.
Raised Beds and Ground Level Vegetable Patches
At the centre of the garden’s productivity are our raised beds and ground-level vegetable patches. Here we grow a wide variety of organic produce, from leafy greens to hearty root vegetables. These areas reflect our commitment to sustainable gardening and offer visitors the chance to see, up close, the benefits of growing your own food.
Jubilee Garden
The Jubilee Garden is a quiet and beautiful space in the West Garden, designed as a place for rest and reflection. Its paved paths are lined with a rich variety of plants and flowers, creating a vibrant yet peaceful setting. With seating and tables dotted throughout, it’s the perfect spot to pause, relax, and enjoy views across the wider Erlas Victorian Walled Garden.
