After seven succesful editions, Saturday the 30th of June sees the eight edition of the Open Garden Day Utrecht. Utrecht’s best-kept secrets are hidden behind the façades and gates of the city centre: oases of tranquillity, green and (garden) architecture. During this event, more than 50 fascinating private and municipal gardens will open their doors to the public, in addition to some gardens owned by other institutions. The Utrecht Open Garden Day provides those interested with the wonderful once-only opportunity to see special gardens which are closed the rest of the year.
Behind the historic walls of the Utrecht city centre are beautiful gardens which normally remain hidden. Each garden that will open its doors on the Utrecht Open Garden Day has its own very distinct character. With a wide variety in design, some gardens have special sculptures and most provide a wonderful view of the surrounding buildings. In addition to private gardens, the programme includes quadrangles of medieval churches, inner courtyards of museums and almshouses and many more locations of historic interest, such as the ancient botanical gardens and the formal garden with its long pond behind the house at Zuilenstraat 5. While in the previous years the gardens and courtyards were all within the ring of the city’s moat, four new gardens this year make it worth a short step outside.
The Utrecht Open Garden Day is a full-day excursion; the numerous Utrecht places of interest are all within walking distance from each other, and the programme includes various restaurants and cafés with a garden. The Utrecht Open Garden Day is a surprising experience in the historic city centre. Utrecht Open Garden Day passes to all of the participating gardens are available on the day itself and the programme includes a description of locations and a map with walking routes.
The Flora Journal 