Quiet beauty

The unique gardens of Bere Mill in Whitchurch are inextricably linked with the river and have a defining tranquility

- Leigh Clapp

Home to Elizabeth and Rupert Nabarro since 1994, Bere Mill sits low in the landscape beside the River Test and is first glimpsed as you cross an ancient bridge spanning the pristine waters.

Approximately five acres of gardens stretch out behind the historic house and mill, interspersed by side streams and blending into the water meadows beyond where cattle and sheep graze on the Nabarro’s 100-acre farm. The whole landscape is run on organic methods and the couple are practically self-sufficient, including water and heating drawn from the river. It comes as no surprise to learn that the unique location with the timeless quality of the landscape was the main drawcard to the property, and the then derelict buildings a challenge they took on with enthusiasm.