Created in the early 18th century out of the ruins of a substantial 12th century earthwork castle, The Moot Garden in Downton is now owned by a charity, open to the public, and mostly managed by volunteers.

high jinks in the Moot

There is no record of the state of the ruins when the garden was made and how it developed is an intriguing puzzle. It is registered both as an Ancient Monument and a Historic Garden.

It has many interesting features and is a delightful place to visit. Apart from special events it is open to the public without charge at all times.

Directions

From the B3080 in Downton at the east end of the High Street, turn into Moot Lane following the brown leisure sign.

The carefully restored entrance balustrade is 100 yards on the right with the car park just beyond.

The Moot is a registered Ancient Monument. It is owned and managed by a charitable company registered number 298337. All the administration and much of the maintenance work is done by volunteers. The Charity receives tremendous support from the FRIENDS. A guide leaflet is available from Downton Pharmacy in the High Street and local tourist offices. Formal accounts and detailed information can be seen on the charities website www.guidestar.org.uk.

The garden adjoins the river Avon and there is a pond. The garden contains steep slopes and other hazards. Children must be supervised and all visitors should take appropriate care. Dog owners are asked to respect the interests of children and others enjoying the garden and to clean up after their pets. Cycling is not permitted as it damages the Ancient Monument.

Easter egg hunt event

Volunteers clearing the pond weed
on 13th October 2007

The Moot Managers are Neville Jennings on 01725 510039 and Jon Frankfort on 01725 510762. Contact them for :-

Group Visits – Volunteers are prepared to guide groups round the Moot, which takes up to 90 minutes. Groups usually make a donation to the Charity.
To organise a concert play or other event.
To discuss helping with maintenance work as a volunteer.
To become a friend contact Barbara Carter, Hon Treasurer and Membership Secretary, 01725 511637.
For details of events contact Hilary Mace at 01725 511055

KEEPING THE MOOT BEAUTIFUL

Downton Moot Trustees are looking for volunteers with some time to spare to help to keep this historic garden looking beautiful.

More willing helpers are always needed either to lend a hand on a Thursday morning or at other times to suit. Contact Neville Jennings on 510039.

There are soon to be more signs to dog walkers about clearing up after their dogs. The Moot Volunteers will be installing some bins, which they will empty. Please be considerate and clean up after your own dogs, whenever and wherever they mess in the grounds of the Moot.

1&1 Hosting and Domains
99.9% Uptime Guarantee, 25GBit Connectivity
24/7 Support!
www.1and1.co.uk

Site sponsored and maintained by Paul Leo and Cllr. Jane Launchbury.

If you wish to leave feedback about the site click here.