Eaton Crescent

Eaton Crescent is a secluded and peaceful Victorian garden surrounded by tall trees, making it a haven for birds and wildlife. The property in the middle of Eaton Crescent terrace is called 'Stratheden', believed to be named after Lady Stratheden, whose name appears in Clifton society newsletters at the turn of the last century. There is also a variety of golden yellow Geum named after her, which we hope to give pride of place to in our flower border one day! The garden is collectively owned by 27 flats in 5-8 Eaton Crescent, but some other properties have a right to use the garden written into their Victorian deeds.

Stratheden House was a small hotel from 1906 until the 1930s, and later was converted into sheltered housing. Neighbours who have lived on the Crescent for a long time remember that the garden was beautifully maintained while it was a care home, but in the 1990s most of the properties were divided into flats and interest in maintaining the garden waned. The garden became overgrown, the perimeter wall fell into disrepair and anti-social behaviour was a problem at times.

In May 2018, a handful of Eaton Crescent neighbours formed a new volunteer group to work on the garden together. Most of the flats don't have any outside space of their own, so our aim is to restore the garden so it can be used and enjoyed once again by those who share it. Currently between four and ten volunteers meet for gardening sessions once a month. As we are a newly formed group, our garden is still a work in progress, but we have started planting bulbs, wild flowers and perennials as we gradually reclaim the borders from the brambles and ivy.