Early Spring is a glorious time to visit the Challis Garden. As the weeks roll by, you can see aconites, snowdrops. crocuses. hellebores and many other flowers. Later in the Spring, there is a wealth of naturalised spring bulbs - daffodils, bluebells and tulips. Why don't you visit to see the changing faces of the garden?
No. 68 High Street – The Laburnums - was the lifetime home of Mary Challis. Two large rooms are used for Summer and Winter exhibitions and we have a Victorian Parlour – a permanent display. There is also an extensive Archive and Artefacts collection.
The House is open on Tuesdays from 10-12pm when our archivists will be happy to help you with any enquiries or research.
The Mary Challis Garden is opening on Sunday 14th June with 7 other Sawston and Pampisford gardens to raise funds for the National Garden Scheme to support important national nursing and caring charities. Homemade teas available in the Mary Challis Garden from 1.30 to 4.30 pm. 50% of any plant sales will be donated to the NGS.
Mary Challis - Her family. Life and Legacy, published in 2025 to commemorate the centenary of her birth, explores her family background in Sawston, going on to outline her life and interests. It pays tribute to the Trustees and many Volunteers who have transformed the House and Garden, since her bequest in 2006. It also depicts the state of the House and Garden then and now.
Trees are of fundamental importance for the environment, nature and humankind. Their manifold functions and uses are presented through detailed descriptions of ten key tree species present in the Challis Garden, with emphasis on growth, habitats and products.Suitable for adults and children alike, the exhibition is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 am to 12 noon over the summer months.
