enquiries@tywigateway.org.uk Parc a Gerddi yr Esgob, Abergwili, Sir Caerfyrddin SA31 2JG

About the Restoration

The Trust is working to protect, restore and positively manage all the things that make this place so special, with the local community at the heart of everything we do.

Parc Yr Esgob-Bishop’s Park is a much loved and extraordinary site of historic, cultural and horticultural interest.

Originally the grounds of the Palace of the Bishops of St David’s, this peaceful haven is now home to many species of rare and protected wildlife. Since 2018 we have been bringing it back to life by installing new paths, seating and garden areas, reclaiming its beautiful views and maximising opportunities for wildlife.

This work has been supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Carmarthenshire County Council and Welsh Government amongst many other funders, https://parcyresgob.org.uk/home/our-supporters/

Built in the 1830s, the now restored and converted outbuildings of the Old Bishops Palace, originally housed a laundry, dairy and brew house where the servants of the Bishops’ households worked. These now provide a café, toilets and learning space, where visitors of all ages can explore the heritage, horticulture and biodiversity of this exceptional place.

This work will help to sustain the Park in the long term, for future generations to enjoy.

We are creating a real community asset with wellbeing at its heart – a place to enjoy, to learn, to socialise and to engage with history, culture, gardening and wildlife.

And there is always more to do.

In June 2023 the Trust was awarded more than £200,000 by the National Lottery Heritage Fund as part of development phase funding for the restoration of the walled kitchen garden. Parc yr Esgob Walled Garden Project has also received £137,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund as part of Carmarthenshire County Council’s Sustainable Communities Fund.

The next phase of restoration is now just starting.

As part of this initial 15-month development phase, the Trust will be working with local groups and organisations, putting together detailed plans for the restoration of three historic glass houses, the creation of a fully accessible educational garden and a performance space amongst the heritage fruit trees within the walled garden. The overall project aims to encourage greater diversity and inclusivity amongst volunteers and visitors to Parc Yr Esgob.

 

By supporting  Parc yr Esgob – Bishop’s Park you can help ensure that everyone has the opportunity to discover this special place now and for generations to come – to enjoy the peace and tranquillity, and feel inspired to get involved.