….from silent lawns to a thriving wildlife haven
The Hospital of St John, Heytesbury Warminster, Wiltshire. Founded 1472
Back in 2023, the St John’s Hospital grounds were immaculate. The lawns were neatly trimmed, the hedges perfectly maintained, and everything was orderly. It was decided, however, that there was plenty of untapped potential in the extensive grounds and a change of direction gradually took place.
With encouragement from the trustees, a new vision emerged: to rewild the grounds, increase biodiversity, and create an environment that would benefit both wildlife and residents. One of the first and most important decisions was to become completely pesticide-free. The local ecosystem and the nearby River Wylye would be better off without the residue of slug pellets and insecticides.
The transformation began gradually. Hedges were left untouched during nesting season, and lawns were allowed to grow a little longer. Sections of the grounds were left to grow wild, and later, a dedicated wildlife area, complete with a pond, was introduced. Reduced mowing not only cut emissions and noise pollution but also revealed dormant treasures within the grounds — including native wildflowers and even wild orchids.
Areas of plain grass were reduced to make space for more allotments where residents grow their own vegetables and flowers, reconnecting them with nature and with each other. No-dig and raised beds, and a thriving allotment group, have widened the appeal of working an allotment or garden strip.
Encouraging residents outdoors just to enjoy the grounds was another key focus. New pathways have been developed, with the less mobile in mind, with seating areas to create peaceful spaces where residents can relax, socialise, and enjoy the changing landscape around them. New flower beds have been planted with pollinators in mind, carefully designed to provide colour, fragrance, and food for bees and butterflies throughout the seasons. A resident has helped us introduce beehives to the site, and today St John’s proudly produces its own honey.
Sustainability was central to the project. Twelve water butts were installed to help conserve water. A polytunnel and replacement potting sheds allow plants to be cultivated on-site. A controlled system of composting was introduced to help reduce waste and create nutrient-rich compost for future planting. Replacing old petrol-powered equipment with electric alternatives reinforces our commitment to a greener future.
Most rewarding of all has been the return of wildlife. Bats now visit regularly, alongside an increasing variety of birds including swifts, swallows, goldfinches, woodpeckers, and even red kites soaring overhead. Grounds at St John’s are now more alive with movement, birdsong, colour and residents, creating a more restorative environment. We have done this through the support, dedication and goodwill of our trustees, staff and residents and without a major programme of expenditure. As funds allow, we will continue to evolve the site and harvest the rewards.
kindly sent in by Paul Budd OBE, The Hospital of St John, Heytesbury Warminster, Wiltshire.
posted 29 September 2026