The museum was founded in order to rescue from demolition the abandoned ancient church of St Mary’s, the burial place of John Tradescant (c 1570 – 1638), the first great gardener and plant-hunter in British history. In 2008 the interior was transformed into a centre for exhibitions and events. Three exhibitions each year explore British gardens. Visitors will also see a permanent display of paintings, tools, ephemera and historic artefacts: a glimpse into the uniquely British love affair with gardens.