The Garden
The museum has a garden of about one acre. Since Edward Jenner's residence here (1785 - 1823) the garden has evolved into a rural, tranquil retreat.
From contemporary descriptions by Jenner's biographers and friends, the Trust has researched the layout and planting of the garden as Jenner would remember it. Using this knowledge the garden has been re-designed by a renowned landscape gardener.
The complete transformation will cost a projected £80,000. The Trustees would like to make the changes as soon as possible, but still have to find the necessary funds.
The gardens in Jenner's day
Written descriptions of the gardens survive from Jenner's day. The best come from his biographer, Baron, and from Fosbroke. Jenner himself also gave information about his garden in letters written to friends. These sometimes included requests for plants and seeds for his favourite vegetables and trees.
During the 180 years since Edward Jenner lived at The Chantry the gardens have gradually evolved, especially with the introduction of plants that were not available to Jenner. The Trustees realise that to regain the authenticity of the complete property it is necessary to take the layout and planting of the garden back to that in Jenner's time.
The Temple of Vaccinia
Jenner's 'Temple of Vaccinia', is Grade II* listed, an 18th century small building of stone under a thatched roof. It is decorated around its doorway and inside with large sections of bark from forest trees. It contains a small fireplace.
In this building Edward Jenner vaccinated the poor people of the district, without charge. It is internationally important for its historical and architectural interest, and is being carefully conserved.
A wedding licence is being applied for. For more information, please contact us.
© 2009 Edward Jenner Museum
Registered Charity 284085
Berkeley, Gloucestershire, England.
Grape Vines
To the rear of the house is the glasshouse containing the Black Hamburgh grape vines planted by Jenner in 1818. The original plants had been obtained as cuttings by Jenner from the Great Vine at Hampton Court Palace in London. The vinery building has been replaced in recent years, but many of the original vines live on.
Vine cuttings and grapes are sold seasonally.
