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1. Walking off all those mince pies!

If you are like me and you have lived on After Eights and turkey sandwiches for about a week, there is nothing better than getting outside and walking. Why not put your best foot forward for the New Year and get 2023 off to a good start by stretching your legs, breathing some fresh air and exploring our historic landscape.

Painshill is 160 acres of open meadows, woodlands and lake. It doesn’t rely on summer flowers to look beautiful. There is plenty to explore in the in winter months including the magical Crystal Grotto and the view from the Gothic Temple.

2. Bare Trees

While the deciduous trees are bare, the landscape can be seen in a new light. The architecture of the follies stands out more when they are not covered by foliage. The bare trees can look majestic against a winter sky.

There is also plenty of bird watching to be done and many species are easier to spot on bare branches. Look out for blue tits, great tits, nuthatches, jays and parakeets. Listen out for the sounds of winter including the call of the robin and the wren. Wagtails can be seen along the edge of the lake as well as a host of lake birds including heron, geese and egrets.  

3. Sunsets

In the mid-winter months, Painshill closes at 4pm due to the sunset. This gives visitors a wonderful chance to watch the sunset just before closing time. We recommend arriving before 3pm and finishing your walk at the top of the vineyard. On a clear day the view is spectacular.

5. Frost and snow

When the weather forecast looks cold, you often feel you have no choice but to stay inside. However, if you are in safe travelling distance to Painshill, there is nothing more beautiful than a snow day. Frost covered follies and mist around the evergreen firs are also a real treat.

5. Spring flower shoots

January is often reported as a month where people struggle with their mental health. Despite New Year’s resolutions and exercise regimes, we are still in mid-winter and sunlight can seem a long way off.

Help avoid the January blues by looking out for the first signs of spring. The first to rise up from the ground is the snowdrops and daffodils.

In November 2022, Painshill Park Trust were delighted to welcome The Mayor of Elmbridge, Simon Waugh, together with Elmbridge Borough Councilors, supporters and trustees to officially open the newly replaced Woollett Bridge.

Painshill’s trustees, staff and volunteers have been have blown away by the generosity and passion of supporters and would like to thank everyone who contributed to this important project.

The fundraising target was met thanks to the generosity of individual supporters and a number of grants totalling over £110,000. Painshill Park Trust is hugely grateful to Elmbridge Borough Council for providing £41,429 as part of the Community Infrastructure Levy which enabled the project to proceed in October of this year.

Painshill was created in the 18^th century as a living work of art and is one of the finest examples of the English Landscape Movement. The bridge is a vital part of the garden and allows people access to one of the most impressive features in the historic park: the magical Crystal Grotto. Without the bridge, visitors cannot progress along the route planned by Charles Hamilton as a walk through a series of stunning views. 

In December 2019 and again in February 2020, the Painshill landscape was flooded and the old wooden bridge was under water for a number of weeks. The timber began to rot and the bridge’s stability was compromised. For many months the bridge has been supported by scaffolding to ensure it was safe for visitors.

To ensure longevity, in a climate where flooding is likely to recur, the new bridge is made of steel. Although this modern material was not used in the 18^th century the Trust is positive that the design will offer the correct aesthetic while ensuring supporter’s donations are invested in a lasting structure.

The bridge was manufactured by Nusteel Structures Limited in Kent. From there it was transported to Painshill by lorry. It needed to be floated across the lake into position.

The day after the official opening, in a stark reminder of how vulnerable the landscape is, Painshill flooded once again. The water can rise quickly and this time reached the new bridge, proving immediately how important the new steel structure is. To ensure the long term survival of the landscape likely winter flooding must be factored into designs and strategies and Painshill is grateful to everyone in the local community for their support.

Who says a garden is just for summer! The Painshill landscape has a different kind of beauty over the winter months, but it is still spectacular. Low mists can hang over the lake in the mornings or snow can fall and turn it into a winter wonderland.

At the weekend families flock to Painshill for the winter statue trail and the atmosphere is fun and festive. In the week the landscape is often quiet, offering calm and tranquil walks to its visitors.

Here’s 5 things to enjoy at Painshill in December….

1. Frosty Follies

On cold days you might be tempted to stay indoors, but getting out into the landscape is worth it. Wrap up warm and you are rewarded with sparkling bridges and frost covered follies.

In winter the bare trees open up views that are covered in the summer months. 18th century visitors would delight in capturing a glimpse of the Temple of Bacchus or the Five Arch Bridge, in an order that was intended to intrigue and charm the visitor. Come along once the leaves and dropped and see the difference yourself.

2. Evergreens

As the leaves drop it can’t help but highlight the steadfast evergreens. Winter is the time to admire and celebrate them just as we decorate our houses with them and make wreaths from their branches. Painshill offers many beautiful spots to enjoy them including Alpine Valley and Fir Walk. Look out for incredible trees like The Great Cedar and winter heroes like holly and mistletoe.

3. Superheroes

Talking of heroes! Painshill’s festive winter trail runs throughout December. Go in search for Superman, watch out for Wonder Woman, hunt for Hulk and see if you can spot Spiderman. It’s fun for all children,(and for those young at heart too!).

4. Christmas Treats

Festive treats are now available in the Tea Room. Warm up with a mulled wine, indulge in a mince pie or bring a smile to someone’s face with a superhero cake.

5. Painshill Sparkling Wine

The Painshill Gift Shop is full of Christmas decorations and gifts. Pick up something for your tree or treat someone special to our signature Kitchen Garden Gin. We are expecting a delivery of wine in the next 2 weeks. Look our for our email once it is in stock and grab yourself a bottle, just in time for Christmas!

Painshill’s brand new car park will be open for its first visitors from 10am on Wednesday 9 November.

Visitors to Painshill will be very aware that the old car park deteriorated very quickly in bad weather. It become extremely uneven and muddy. In winter large sections of it unusable and Painshill struggled to provide people with easy parking, accessibility and a welcoming entrance.

We are delighted that the new car park offers a hard grid and stone surface which will offer a greatly improved visitor experience for drivers and secure the future of Painshill.

This project would not have been made possible without Elmbridge Borough Council who assisted us via the Community Infrastructure Levy. We offer them huge thanks for their continued support of Painshill Park Trust.

We would also like to say thank you to Motion for project managing, Breheny Civil Engineering for the construction of the site and to Councillor Simon Waugh, The Mayor of Elmbridge, for joining us to open it.

Thank you to all our members and visitors for their patience while the building work was completed. We very much hope that you will find arriving at Painshill a much better experience in the future!

Due to mild weather, autumn colour is late this year. Even though we are into November there is still plenty to enjoy! Come along for a walk in a work of art and enjoy the falling leaves and the stunning sights.

Here’s 5 things to enjoy at Painshill in November.

1. Autumn colour

The John Bartram Heritage Collection of American trees and shrubs can be found across Painshill, particularly around the Chinese Bridge which casts a stunning reflection on a still day.

2. Forest Bathing

Forest Bathing, a technique that was developed in Japan in the 1980s, is fast becoming very popular in the West.

Despite the name, the activity doesn’t involve getting into water! It is about practicing meditation while surrounded by trees. You can give it a go with our beginners guide or with one of our sessions in the landscape.

3. Superheroes!

Painshill’s festive winter trail starts on Saturday 19 November. Go in search for Superman, watch out for Wonder Woman, hunt for Hulk and see if you can spot Spiderman. It’s fun for all the family!

4. Walkies across the Woollett Bridge

We were hugely excited that our damaged Woollett Bridge was replaced with a brand new steel one last month. We have received lots of lovely pictures from our regular dog walkers. Why not join in the fun and send us a picture of your canine companions crossing the lake!

5. Autumn shopping

The Gift Shop at Painshill is full of autumn delights including hats, scarfs, blankets and ear warmers. Treat yourself or start your Christmas shopping early with Painshill Gin, Painshill honey or our new Painshill jigsaws in stock now.

Forest Bathing, a technique that was developed in Japan in the 1980s, is fast becoming very popular in the West.

Despite the name, the activity doesn’t involve getting into water! This Japanese activity is about practicing meditation while surrounded by trees. It is a form of relaxation using the simple method of being calm and quiet, observing the plants around you and breathing deeply.

Scientific evidence has shown Forest Bathing can contribute to modern day wellbeing by helping people de-stress. So much evidence suggests that it reduces blood pressure and improves concentration that the Japanese government has incorporated it into the country’s health programme. A chemical released by trees and plants, called phytoncides, was found to boost the immune system.

So how can you get started? Here’s 5 tips to help you unlock the health benefits of Forest Bathing.

1. Leave your devices behind

Turning off your smart phone or leaving behind your camera is an important part of connecting with nature. It feels very alien to those of us who have a phone pretty much glued to the end of our arm but that’s exactly the point. It is vital to have a break from technology and putting your device away will give you the best chance to feel the health benefits.

2. Go slow

In our fast-paced modern life Forest Bathing can be your antidote to the stress that brings. Slow down your walking and take long deep breaths. Take a moment to consciously shake off that feeling that you need to be somewhere quickly or do something productive. Forest Bathing is about taking time away from that to just be in the moment.

3. Take time to notice the forest

Forest Bathing is all about being aware of your surroundings. Use all your senses and remind yourself to smell and touch as well as look. One thing often overlooked is the power of glancing up. Take a moment to notice the height and scale of the trees and you might also spot birds, squirrels and other wildlife.

4. Make time for nature

Like everything, Forest Bathing will not benefit your health and happiness if it is something you only do once. If you find you enjoy Forest Bathing, make time for it in your routine and life. Whatever is happening in your life you deserve to have time to look after yourself.

Painshill membership can offer you a beautiful place, full of trees, to visit regularly to watch the seasons change and find tranquility. However Forest Bathing can be done anywhere you feel comfortable, such as a local park or woodland, or even under a tree in your back garden.

5. Join a Painshill session

If you would like to explore Forest Bathing with someone experienced you can join one of our sessions held in the landscape. Nigel, from Connect with the Forest, can help you through the process of what Forest Bathing involves, explain the science behind it and guide you to connect with the practice. If you would like to have a guide to start you off why not join one of our sessions at Painshill?

Painshill Park Trust is delighted to announce that their latest restoration project, replacing the Woollett Bridge, will go ahead in October.

Painshill’s Trustees, staff and volunteers have been have blown away by the generosity and passion of its supporters and is delighted to thank everyone who contributed to this important project.

The fundraising target has now been met thanks to the generosity of individual supporters and a number of grants totalling over £110,000. Painshill Park Trust is hugely grateful to Elmbridge Borough Council for providing £41,429 as part of the Community Infrastructure Levy enabling the project to proceed.

Painshill was created in the 18^th century as a living work of art and is one of the finest examples of the English Landscape Movement. The bridge is a vital part of the garden and allows people access to one of the most impressive features in the historic park: the magical Crystal Grotto. Without the bridge, visitors cannot progress along the route planned by Charles Hamilton as a walk through a series of stunning views. 

In December 2019 and again in February 2020, the Painshill landscape was flooded and the wooden bridge was under water for a number of weeks. The timber began to rot and the bridge’s stability was compromised. For many months the bridge has been supported by scaffolding to ensure it is safe for visitors.

However, this October, Painshill Park Trust is delighted that bridge will be replaced. To ensure longevity, in a climate where flooding is likely to recur, the new bridge will be made of steel. The modern material was not used in the 18^th century but the Trust is positive that the design will offer the correct aesthetic while ensuring people’s donations are invested in a lasting structure.

The design for the new bridge has been based on an engraving by William Woollett created in 1760.

The bridge is being manufactured by Nusteel Structures Limited in Kent. From there it will be transported to Painshill and floated across the lake into position.

To follow the progress of the work join Painshill Park Trust on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

The days may be getting shorter and the temperature has dropped, however nature is about to treat us to a stunning riot of reds, golds and yellows.

In the 18th century Charles Hamilton, the designer of Painshill, would buy trees and shrubs from John Bartram in America. They would arrive in seed boxes that travelled across the Atlantic by ship. Painshill has been left with a legacy of deciduous plants that were awarded plant heritage status in 2006. They give a wonderful display of autumn colour.

Here’s 5 things to enjoy at Painshill in October.

1. Autumn colour

The John Bartram Heritage Collection of American trees and shrubs can be found across Painshill, particularly around the Chinese Bridge which casts a stunning reflection on a still day.

2. Fairy Doors

This autumn the Painshill team have created a fun family Fairy Door trail to spark every child’s imagination. Take a wander and see if you can spot homes of the fairies.

3. Autumn Tree Day

Learn more about the tree collection at Painshill, enjoy live music and watch a wood turning demonstration at our Autumn Tree Day on Sunday 23 October.

4. Mushroom spotting

Across Painshill there is a huge variety of mushrooms in autumn. Head out and see if you can spot fungi of every shape, colour and size.

5. Atmospheric mists

John Keats wrote that autumn was the season of mists and there are many mornings when an atmospheric cloud lays over the lake and around the follies. Head to Painshill at opening time on a misty day to enjoy a different view of the landscape.

Painshill Park Trust is participating in Remember A Charity in Your Will Week (5th – 11th September) – an annual awareness week which aims to encourage people to leave a gift to charity.

Kind-hearted Brits left gifts in Wills to 10,670 different charities last year, the highest number recorded over the past decade, according to research marking the start of Remember A Charity Week.

Gifts in Wills are a critical source of funding for charitable services across the country, raising more than £3 billion for good causes annually.

To mark this week, we spoke to Painshill Trustee Louise Russell of what Painshill means to her and why she choose to leave a gift in her Will.

“Painshill has been an important part of my life. I am passionate about the beauty and history of the landscape, and it really does have a unique, magical quality of its own.  It is wonderful to have Painshill on my doorstep and I never tire of walking there with friends and family and encouraging others to experience its splendour or feel its peace and restorative qualities.

As an independent registered charity, Painshill Park Trust is committed to restoring and maintaining the historic gardens and buildings at Painshill, so it can continue to be enjoyed for by future generations. For the past seven years I have been privileged to be a trustee of Painshill so I know first-hand what a difference a legacy can make.

The Trust has come such a long way since 1981 but fulfilling the potential of Painshill will take many, many years and there will always be a need to maintain what has been created. Legacies, whether large or small, are unexpected and uplifting for those charged with caring for Painshill and I have seen how they can open doors and bring new opportunities. I would like to feel that a gift in my will could help protect Painshill in the future so that the next generation and beyond can continue to enjoy its magic as I have done.

This is the first will I have written, and I followed the details on the Painshill website where, as a member of Remember a Charity, supporters of Painshill benefit from a 20% discount on will-writing through the Co-Operative Legal Services.  I was delighted to find that the process was extremely convenient and quick. It started with a phone call from a solicitor who went through all I wished to communicate and then I was emailed a draft copy of my proposed will for any amendments before a final version was sent out to me by recorded delivery. It really couldn’t have been more straightforward.

Remember a Charity week is a really good time to consider whether you could leave a legacy to support Painshill. I am happy that I have finally sorted out my will, something it’s all to easy to put off to another day, and in so doing I’ll also help support the future of the place that has brought me so much joy over so many years.”

Gifts in Wills are vital for most charities and Painshill is no exception.  Painshill simply wouldn’t be here without the incredible support of our communtiy and gifts that supporters have included in their Will.

The children are back in class and the days are growing shorter. September sees summer clinging on while autumn is nudging in.

Garden visiting at this time of year is especially relaxing. The sun is still out however the air is fresher and cooler.

Enjoy a peaceful walk, where you can notice changing leaf colours and the soft sunlight.

Here’s 5 things to enjoy at Painshill in September.

1. Cooler days

If you are like us then you are probably thankful that the days have grown slightly cooler. After the excessive heatwave it is enjoyable to have a fresh morning to stretch your legs and go for a walk. When cooler days approach it is easier to plan a walk further afield. Head off to see the Gothic Tower or find the Hermitage.

2. Notice the start of autumn

September is when signs of autumn begin to creep in. Look out for mushrooms and keep an eye on the colour changes.

At this time of year we have a large amount of enquiries asking when the best day is for autumn colour. There is no best day however. The trees change colour over a series of weeks. The best way to enjoy Painshill is to visit a few times a year and enjoy watching the landscape transform. The beauty of Charles Hamilton’s living paintings is that they never stay still.

3. Become a member

To watch the seasons change all year around why not become a Painshill member? Enjoy autumn colour, atmospheric winter mists, sparkling frost covered follies, snowdrops, daffodils, ducklings and the lush green of summer all for one price! Membership was capped over the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure we could manage numbers. However it is back open now! This September is the first time you can join without a waiting list for many months.

4. Produce from the Kitchen Garden

The Kitchen Garden is busy producing a lovely range of vegetables. Much of the produce is heading to the Gift Shop when it can be purchased for a donation of your choice. Harvest is every Wednesday.

5. Second hand September

Did you know that we sell second hand books in our Gift Shop? We are currently on the look out for more. If you are having a clear out this September why not bring them along to donate? Books are available from 50p and all proceeds go back into the protection of Painshill.