We previously participated in a large open garden day with the now-dissolved Open Gardens Australia in 2014 when eight of Bickleigh Vale’s private gardens were open to the public. In October 2019 we opened again - this time in conjunction with Open Gardens Victoria. Again, with eight of the village's private gardens open to the public.

And then, in October 2024, once again we opened eight of the village's gardens but this time over two days. The weather was perfect and both visitors and residents enjoyed a delightful weekend.

Bickleigh Vale
​Bickleigh Vale Road, Mooroolbark (off Pembroke Road)
Saturday 12th and Sunday 13 October, 2024
10.00am - 4.00pm
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Edna Walling created an enchanted village for herself and her friends at Bickleigh Vale, and this special quality continues to influence succeeding owners as they work to keep the vision of her achievement alive for future generations.

Although the cottages have been adapted for modern needs, and the growth of trees and shrubs has altered the gardens, Bickleigh Vale remains the finest example of Walling's ability to achieve harmony between buildings and landscape.

​Eight of the Bickleigh Vale properties are planning to open, showcasing how past and present have been melded together in this unique community. They are:

• Badgers Wood
• Devon Cottage
• Downderry
• Lynton Lee
• Mistover
• Sonningfield
• The Barn
• Whistlewood

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Parking and Public Transport

Limited parking will be available in the streets near to Bickleigh Vale Road and at Mooroolbark Heights Reserve (800m). For convenience there will be a drop off point at the corner of Bickleigh Vale Road and Pembroke Road for those with mobility concerns.

The nearest station, Mooroolbark Station, is 2km away. There is ample parking at the station (or you may catch a train there) and then walk to Bickleigh Vale in the footsteps of Edna Walling.

'Talks' on the day

Visitors often enjoy hearing about various aspects of Bickleigh Vale from those who live here so there were three 'talks' during the day:
 
Saturday
11am, Downderry: Maryann, "Life in Bickleigh Vale"
12.30pm, Whistlewood: Susan, "Wildlife in Bickleigh Vale"
2pm, Sonningfield: Coral, "Heritage  Environment"

Sunday
11am, Whistlewood: Susan, "Wildlife in Bickleigh Vale"
12.30pm, Sonningfield: Coral, "Heritage/Environment"
2pm, Downderry: Maryann, "Life in Bickleigh Vale"

General Information and Garden Notes provided to visitors >