Situated on a ridge above a quintessential vista of the Brandywine Valley, the West Conservatory Plaza invites you to stroll the shady paths and relish the seasonal beauty that surrounds you.
About This Garden
Overlooking acres of natural lands, the West Conservatory Plaza offers a newly open to the public space that boasts grand sunset views. As you depart from the choreographed landscape of the West Conservatory, a stately grove of majestic London plane-trees greets you. Dating back to the early 20th century and planted by our founder, Pierre S. du Pont, these trees stand as living testaments to the enduring legacy and forward-thinking vision that define Longwood Gardens. The sweeping terrace beckons you further, to view the picturesque meadow and explore the pathways that meander through the shaded promenade.
The former agricultural fields in the distance were purchased by Longwood in 1968 from the Abbondi family, who had used the land for mushroom growing. Immediately, we embarked on a land and soil restoration project. A grass meadow was planted along with a new arboretum; two ponds were also built. Great success was seen almost immediately, and these initial changes set the tone for the next thirty years of land stewardship.