Heritage Open Days 2025
This year's theme for Heritage Open Days was "Architecture".
Now Rye Meadows doesn't have historic manor houses or Grade 1 listed buildings but it does have countryside architecture. You might think we have taken liberties with the subject matter but the file below illustrates the diffrent sorts of architecture we have on Rye Meadows, often created by the volunteers themselves.
Visit this special wetland site, which is the result of a 12 year programme to enhance the nature conservation value of the Rye Brook and its floodplain.
In the last 13 years volunteers have been creating a wetland area alongside the Rye Brook. During that time they have planted a Jubilee Wood, reshaped the river banks and created ponds and scrapes to encourage the biodiversity of the area. They have laid a hard surface on the public footpaths to enable circular walks to take place without the need to cross muddy ground and also ensure buggies and pushchairs can be used. Other East/West paths are mown grass and could be too soft for wheelchairs.
They have also created a Centenary Field commemorating those Ashtead residents who fell in the Great War and constructed a wooden walkway to the ponds where there is new seating. There is no wheelchair access to this walkway.
The Meadows are a very pleasant walk along the Rye Brook. The story of the Rye Meadows and its restoration has been the subject of a book published in 2022: 'Restoring the Great Marsh'.
On Sunday 14th September only, between 1000 and 1600 volunteers were on hand to explain about the Meadows, its history, sell merchandise, including the recently published book 'Restoring the Great Marsh'. To buy the book, go to our shop. Book priced at £10.
Despite the poor weather forecast of high winds, we were able to open as usual and welcome a few visitors who braved the forecast. Those who came we lucky enough to enjoy the fabulours chocolate brownie made and kindly donated by Four Gables Group.
If you decided not to visit that day, Peter Williams, our Treasurer, and taker of many superb photographs over the years, has recorded his walks over the fields in Rye Meadows. This video is now available to open and view by going to the Gallery. Enjoy Rye Meadows from your computer, tablet and phone. If you enjoyed the 2nd hand fresh air do buy one of the books, or perhaps buy a mug or two and a tea towel or two to dry them up with! Available via the Shop. All funds go towards keeping the volunteers going. Thank you.