King charles unveils sustainable venus garden at windsor castle

King Charles III has unveiled his ambitious vision for a sustainable royal garden at Windsor Castle, transforming a traditional rose garden into a thriving haven for wildlife. The Venus Garden, designed by the monarch himself, boasts a contemporary twist on classic topiary with strong color schemes and intricate curves.

Recycling and renewal

The garden's 18-month makeover saw the recycling of large yew topiary, now clipped into quirky shapes offsetting the symmetrical layout. Over 35 new trees, including hornbeam, catalpa, and parrotia, have been planted to increase biodiversity. Meadow planting further enhances the garden's ecological value.

A royal legacy

Windsor Castle's East Terrace Garden has a rich history dating back to Charles II's reign in the 1670s. Initially a lawn bowling green, it later became a formal garden under George IV, with an orangery built to house 34 orange trees. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert also left their mark, with the garden occasionally opening to the public.

During World War II, the space was repurposed as an allotment for locals, with the Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret contributing to the war effort. After the war, it was redesignated by Prince Philip, planted with 3,500 roses under Queen Elizabeth II's reign.

Open to the public

For the first time in decades, the Venus Garden will be open to the public each summer, with viewing also possible from the semi-state apartments during winter months. Admission is included with standard Windsor Castle tickets between July 16 and September 13.