Rheola Walled Garden in the Neath Valley originates from about 1812 and was probably designed by Humphry Repton or his son George who worked with the architect John Nash.

In 2009, Glynneath Training Centre, a local charity, took on the task of clearing the abandoned garden, building paths, restoring the walls and rebuilding three Greenhouses, to use for growing fruits, vegetables and useful plants.

Long term aims of the project are to offer a range of training to include gardening, rural crafts and personal development. We have rebuilt the old gardener’s cottage to be used as a course venue. Produce is supplied to a community cafe and children's creche. Produce and plants are sometimes sold to help fund on-going activities.

We are dependant on the involvement of volunteers to participate in this project and turn ideas into reality. Whether you are free for a few hours a week or a couple of days – you will be very welcome. We can offer training in gardening skills and the experience in working in a unique environment.

Principle Site Features

• Vegetable beds

• Woodland area, with meeting circle and fire-pit

• Herb garden

• Red cedar greenhouses

• Wildlife pond

• Polytunnel

• Fruit : trained and untrained!

• Rainwater harvesting for irrigation and toilet flushing

• Gravity fed drip–irrigation system

• Willow beds (for basketry/crafts)

• Gardener’s Cottage for meeting space and training venue

• Apple Orchard

• Forest garden in development

Activities and Training

• Horticulture

• Permaculture

• Willowcraft

• Stonecraft

• Environmental Art

• Nature appreciation

• Food and outdoor cookery

• Gardening sessions for children and families

• Apple based activities

Plans for future developments

• Outdoor kitchen with cob oven and rocket stoves

• Compost toilet

• Barn/workshop

• Vegetable/fruit storage

To get involved please visit the centre in Glynneath, ring 01639 721772 or send email

Visitors by appointment please as garden is on a private estate and the gate is often locked.

PIctures of the project here https://www.flickr.com/photos/139262232@N05/