About the Sanctuary

A quiet haven overlooking the Rissington hills, Springfield Sanctuary offers an opportunity for rest and recuperation from life’s frantic pace.

The Sanctuary encompasses a large, wooden summerhouse overlooking two herb gardens and a small oak glade where three springs feed into a hidden pond. The glade includes many ancient trees including oak, ash, elder, hawthorn, hazel, willow, rowan, crabapple and field maple, as well as more recent plantings of apple and Balm of Gilead poplar. Benches are located in convenient spots so that visitors can sit and admire the view or engage in meditation - whatever takes their fancy.

The herb gardens have been planted with a wide range of British and North American herbs ranging from agrimony to wormwood. A full list of herbs can be found on another page. A range of fruit and herb trees, such as medlar, quince, mulberry, gingko biloba and agnus castus, have also been brought in.  There are substantial numbers of wild flowers, such as violets, wild comfrey, impatiens, nettles, white and red campion and many others, all of which provide nectar for the bumble and honey bees which travel from flower to flower.

The summerhouse was built in 1971 and has ample seating for up to 10 people. There is space for three people to sleep overnight and electricity for lights, heating and hot drinks. A toilet and washing facility is situated close by, next to the pumping station which provides water for the rest of the farm.

Apart from cattle, sheep, ducks and horses in neighbouring fields, there are many wild animals which visit – rabbits, foxes, badgers and monkjack deer, but they are very shy and may only appear after dusk. Our other wild animal in the area are the honey bees, which live in a hive under the ash tree in the corner of the field.

Whether you wish to listen for the Roman Legions marching along the salt road of Icknield Street on their way to Salmesbury (now called Bourton on the Water) or find a peaceful space to read, meditate or simply commune with nature, the Sanctuary holds something for you.

Click here to find out how to become A Friend of Springfield Sanctuary and to book time there.