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Friends of the City of Swansea Botanical Complex
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    • Home
    • Plant Shop
    • Visitor Information
    • Volunteer Opportunities
    • Plant Shop Volunteer
    • Horticultural Volunteers
    • Awards
    • Glasshouses
    • The Old Glasshouses
    • The HISTORY Blog
    • Wellbeing Garden
    • PHOTO GALLERY
    • Videos
Friends of the City of Swansea Botanical Complex
  • Home
  • Plant Shop
  • Visitor Information
  • Volunteer Opportunities
  • Plant Shop Volunteer
  • Horticultural Volunteers
  • Awards
  • Glasshouses
  • The Old Glasshouses
  • The HISTORY Blog
  • Wellbeing Garden
  • PHOTO GALLERY
  • Videos

The Wellbeing Garden is a space designed to nurture both mind and body through a calm, natural environment. Nestled within the beauty of the Swansea Botanical Gardens, it provides a peaceful retreat from the pace of everyday life—a place where visitors can pause, breathe, and reconnect with nature. Surrounded by trees, plants, and seasonal colour,  the garden encourages a sense of balance, reflection, and quiet enjoyment.


With thoughtfully placed seating, the garden invites people to spend time in whatever way suits them best. It may be a moment of solitude, a gentle conversation with a friend, or a chance for families to gather and enjoy time together in a relaxed setting. The simple act of sitting among greenery, listening to birdsong, or watching the changing light can have a powerful and restorative effect.


More than just a physical space, the Wellbeing Garden supports community connection and personal wellbeing. It welcomes everyone—whether seeking peace and quiet, companionship, or a place to feel closer to nature. In doing so, it reflects the wider purpose of the Swansea Botanical Gardens: to provide not only beauty and learning, but also comfort, inclusion, and a sense of belonging.


Tree trunk carved into a smiling bearded face in a forest.the “Green Man”

The Green Man in the Wellbeing Garden

THE GREEN MAN

Hidden among leaves and branches, the Green Man is a symbol found across many cultures, representing nature, growth, and renewal.

Often shown as a face formed from foliage—leaves, vines, and branches—the Green Man reminds us of the deep connection between humans and the natural world. He appears in carvings, churches, and folklore throughout Britain and Europe, with examples dating back to medieval times.

Though his exact origins are uncertain, the Green Man is closely linked to the cycle of the seasons: growth in spring, fullness in summer, decline in autumn, and rest in winter—before returning again.

Here in Swansea Botanical Gardens, this sculpture reflects that enduring connection with nature and the life that surrounds us. As you explore, you may begin to notice the “Green Man” not just in art, but in the living trees and plants themselves.

Take a moment to look closely… what shapes can you see in nature?

  • Sculpture by Simon Hedger


Click on

the Green Man's Face

Listen to the song by Maddy Prior and Steeleye Span 


History of the Green Man - click here

The creation of the Wellbeing Garden - Video No.1

Our Wildflower/Wellbeing Garden was planned in 2016 and opened in 2017.It was the first extension to the Botanical Gardens since 1929. The total cost was in the region of £145,000. Of this total £75,000 being monies raised from our plant sales, the other £70,000 from grants and donations.


The creation of the Wellbeing Garden - Video No.2

Initially, the garden was called the Wildflower and Wellbeing Garden. It is now known as the Wellbeing Garden.

To take a look at our video about the creation of the garden, which was funded by the Friends of Swansea Botanical Gardens



A photographic record

The creation of the Wellbeing Garden in 2016-17

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Friends of Swansea Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Gardens, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 9DU, United Kingdom

 

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