Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost
- J.R.R. Tolkien
About The Gardens
The Templeton Gardens represent a collection of walking gardens and arboretums free to the public with sites situated on the western edge of the Cumberland Plateau in both Winchester and Sewanee, TN. The gardens represent a gift to the people of Franklin County Tennessee and its visitors from its late benefactors and brothers, Harvey M. Templeton, Jr. and Sir John M. Templeton.
Thanks to the generosity of brothers Harvey and John Templeton the Templeton Gardens were created as a non-profit organization to delight its visitors with the famously natural beauty the area has to offer. Free to the public, the Templeton Gardens sites are maintained with walking paths, flowering plants, and arboretums that can be enjoyed from the brow views atop the Cumberland Plateau or the fertile Tennessee Valley below
The Templeton Gardens is comprised of two separate locations in Franklin County, including sites in Winchester, TN, and Sewanee, TN. In addition to being approximately 14 miles apart, the two sites offer visitors distinct outdoor experiences.
Explore the Trio of Gardens in Winchester, TN
Harvey’s Garden, Johnny’s Garden, and Vella’s Garden (Winchester, TN)
Located in Winchester, TN, Harvey’s Garden is located alongside South College Street, near the Winchester town square, while the Johnny’s Garden and Vella’s Garden sites are nearby on Country Club Road.
These three sites help showcase the dynamic and fertile backdrop of the Tennessee Valley, while providing views on the horizon of the surrounding Cumberland Plateau. These gardens feature walking paths, stone benches, and arboretums. Harvey’s Garden has become a popular destination in the spring and summer, and it is well known for its seasonal color, which is found in long beds of peonies and crape myrtles. These conveniently located sites offer small dedicated parking lots, making them readily accessible to anyone seeking to reconnect with nature on a walk or seat on one of the many custom sandstone benches located throughout.
Panoramic Views at the Templeton Library
The Templeton Library (Sewanee, TN)
Located in Sewanee, TN, the Templeton Library site sits on the western edge of the Cumberland Plateau and features sweeping panoramic views of the middle Tennessee Valley and neighboring rolling vistas. The site features readily accessible overlooks north and south of the Templeton Library building, stone benches, a small reflection pond, and dedicated parking.
Plan Your Visit
Discover the beauty and tranquility of The Templeton Gardens. With two distinct locations in Winchester and Sewanee, TN, our gardens offer walking paths, vibrant seasonal blooms, and breathtaking views of the Cumberland Plateau.