The Black Bear pub on Whitchurch High Street is celebrating its new Courtyard Garden - a peaceful, beautifully planted oasis hidden just behind its historic 17th-century timber-framed building.

What was once a nondescript car park has been reimagined into a stunning garden retreat, blending the charm of the past with thoughtful, contemporary planting.

Conceived and shaped by Head Gardener Michael Kemp, the courtyard features brick-edged beds, climbing vines, and fragrant seasonal plants — all nestled behind a building that once served as a bustling coaching inn for horses and pigs alike.

From a simple sketch and a ball of string, Kemp worked through the challenges of compacted soil beds, old stable footings, and the ever-unpredictable Shropshire weather to create a garden with year-round interest. Guests are now greeted by the scent of daphne as they pass through the pub and into a secluded world filled with Virginia creeper, Pittosporum, and even a sun-loving Mexican Lobelia.

Each table in the courtyard is surrounded by its own miniature garden, offering visitors an intimate, ever-evolving experience.

The Black Bear’s new garden is open to all - no booking required. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or simply looking for a quiet spot to enjoy a drink, the space offers something special. Visit The Black Bear on Whitchurch High Street and step into something unexpected — a garden sanctuary with history, soul, and a warm welcome.