A Carmarthenshire landmark will be celebrating its 25th anniversary in July.
Once overgrown, derelict and vandalised, Aberglasney is gearing up to mark a significant milestone as it celebrates 25 years since the gardens were restored and opened to the public.
Known from a medieval poem referencing ‘nine green gardens,’ Aberglasney boasts a rich history dating back to the reign of Henry VIII.
The Grade II* listed mansion has been home to several interesting personalities including a famous poet, artists and a bishop for more than 500 years.
However, the mansion was on the verge of ruin until the intervention of the Aberglasney Restoration Trust in 1995.
The purchase and restoration of the house and gardens were primarily financed by American benefactor, Frank Cabot.
William Wilkins CBE, founder of the Welsh Historic Gardens Trust and the first promoter of the National Botanic Garden of Wales, conceived the restoration project.
His tireless efforts paid off when Aberglasney officially opened to the public on July 4, 1999.
Mr Wilkins recently expressed his joy around the upcoming anniversary.
He said: "As the founding chairman of the Aberglasney Restoration Trust and project director of the restoration, I am very pleased to be part of this year’s 25th anniversary celebrations at Aberglasney.
"I am proud that it continues to go from strength to strength and continues to be an inspiration."
To honour this landmark, Aberglasney has planned a vibrant event starting at 11am on Thursday, July 4, 2024.
The day will kick off with a performance by pupils from Llandeilo Primary School, followed by traditional folk dancing by Dansio Llanarthne.
Aberglasney’s veteran gardener, Will Gibbon, who is marking his 25-year tenure this year, will cut a celebratory birthday cake.
Eleanor Keatley, chairwoman of Aberglasney’s 25th Anniversary Celebration Group, echoed the excitement, saying: "We have planned an exciting programme of unique events and experiences to celebrate this landmark at Aberglasney.
"We hope our members and visitors will join us over the coming months to help celebrate this latest milestone.
"There will be opportunities to learn about Aberglasney’s history whilst work gets underway on exciting, new projects which enhance our venue for the future."
For the weekend celebration on July 6 and 7, the entry fee to the gardens will be rolled back to the price charged in 1999, £3.95.
On future projects, Aberglasney’s director of operations, Jim Stribling revealed: "This year is an exciting one for the future of Aberglasney.
"Work will start later this year to replace the terrace marquee of the Tearooms with a permanent dining area overlooking the pool garden, allowing for year-round enjoyment, whatever the weather.
"Work has also started on Allt Aberglasney, the woodland area adjacent to the gardens."
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