All medieval gardens were enclosed, protecting the private precinct from public intrusion, whether by folk or by stray animals. The enclosure might be as simple as woven wattle fencing or of stout or decorative masonry; or it might be enclosed by trelliswork tunneled pathways in a secular garden or by an arcaded cloister, for communication or meditative pacing.
Medieval gardens were enclosed to protect their private areas from both people and animals. The enclosure could be simple, like woven wattle fencing, or more elaborate, such as stone walls or trellises with pathways.  Secular gardens might have enclosed walkways, while cloisters provided a space for contemplation.