Founded by the Reverend Philip Roderick in 1992, the Quiet Garden Movement is committed to, and inspired by its Christian roots. There are now over 250 Quiet Gardens worldwide.
Philip Roderick was very aware of the restorative and healing benefits of silence. We live in an increasingly noisy and busy world where peace is often hard to find. The Quiet Garden Movement recognises that space is important for our wellbeing.
It seeks to nurture opportunities for local communities to engage with nature through outdoor spaces.
“Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while”. Mark 6:31
Jesus said to his disciples
Participants gather outside St Mary’s Hospital in St Martin’s Square at 12.15pm and, after a welcome and introduction, we go into silence from 12.30pm until 1.30pm.
The time of silence will provide an opportunity for reflection, prayer, reading, drawing or just simply time “to be” without any expectations placed upon participants. At 1.30pm, a bell will sound and, after gathering, people are free to leave or stay for a short chat.
Reading materials for reflection and prayer can be provided, if needed. Tea and coffee are available, and there is a wc on site.
The Quiet Garden is open monthly between April and September from 12.30pm to 1.30pm.
Places are limited and booking via the Custos of St Mary’s Hospital is essential.
2026 dates: 28 April, 26 May, 30 June, 28 July, 18 August, 29 September.
St Mary’s Hospital Almshouses is a charity based in the centre of Chichester. Founded by Chichester Cathedral near the Market Cross in the second half of the 12th Century, it provided shelter and hospitality for the sick, the poor and to pilgrims. Moving to its’ present site in St Martin’s Square in the late 13th Century, it is based around its’ medieval Hospital building and Chapel and continues to seek to relieve poverty and social isolation by providing accommodation for those in need.