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As the Chelsea Flower Show is streamed across the country, it’s Michael O’Leary’s garden in Cefn Fforest that has been recognised by National Garden Scheme (NGS) – with visitors travelling from far and wide to see hundreds of varieties of flowers.

After being inspired by visiting other NGS gardens around the country, Michael told Caerphilly Observer what started off as a hobby 40 years ago, is now a full time commitment.

“Rain or shine you’ve got to get out there everyday and get your hands dirty. We have a few volunteers here; without their help this wouldn’t be possible.”

In 2021, Hillcrest Garden won the National Garden Scheme’s Nation’s Favourite Garden award. On the success, Michael said: “Considering we started with nothing 40 years ago, it’s great to get some recognition.

“We opened up the garden to the public 18 years ago and have since raised £50,000 for the NGS charities.”

National Garden Scheme is a charity that has raised more than £63m for several health charities such as Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK and The Queen’s Nursing Institute.

The award for best regional garden was only introduced a few years ago. Michael’s garden was put against some of the best gardens in Wales and came out on top.

“When people come to the garden they always ask us ‘is there a right way to walk around it?’ and I always tell them to go find out for themselves. It’s like a secret garden.

“Everyone is stunned by the time they’ve left. They all wish they’d have visited sooner.” Michael said.

Although Covid proved difficult for any business, Michael spoke about how the benefit of having a 1.5 acre garden meant he could still accept visitors.

“With the help of the NGS, we were able to keep the garden open to a reduced crowd throughout most of the pandemic.

“Nothing changed for me. If the sun is out then I’m in the garden all day.” He added.

Caerphilly Observer contacted National Garden Scheme and asked them what made Michael’s garden so special.

A spokesperson said: “The warm welcome with which Michael O’Leary and his team of helpers greet National Garden Scheme visitors is renowned.

“Hillcrest Garden offers a series of secluded gardens, bringing interest throughout the seasons.

“Having dedicated garden owners who understand the joy that sharing their garden brings is a sure way to win a Nation’s Favourite Garden Award.”

The garden will be open from Saturday May 28 – Monday May 30, 11am to 6pm. From then it will open both bank holidays in early June and every Sunday through July and August. 

Michael concluded by saying: “I’ve never done this for any award. It’s great to see a garden that was just dirt and brambles 40 years ago turn into this. I do it for the love of gardening.

“It has proven difficult these past two years after losing my partner, I haven’t been able to maintain it as much as I’d like, but I’m glad people still enjoy it.”

More information on Hillcrest Garden, including opening times, can be found on the NGS’ website.