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Every year over a million local residents and tourists visit the Abbey Gardens in the centre of Bury St Edmunds. Why do they come? Because these unique and beautiful Gardens, conveniently situated in the centre of town, provide something for everyone. There is peace and tranquillity, space to play or stroll, unusual trees and floral displays to admire; also an aviary, a play area for small children and refreshments to be enjoyed sitting out in the sun.

The Gardens are also the venue for a wide variety of public and civic events: concerts, plays and parades; fun days, festivals, fairs and fireworks. And there is remarkable architecture. History is all around. The ruins of the C11th Benedictine Abbey lie within the Gardens, the neighbouring Cathedral dominates the view and the main entrance is through the massive C14th Abbey Gate.

A century ago, the Gardens were the property of the Marquess of Bristol, but through a leasehold agreement with the Council, they became a free public park. Today they are owned by West Suffolk Council, and managed by the Council in conjunction with English Heritage.

Entry to the Gardens is free and they are open to the public during daylight hours throughout the year.