Gardens in Dorset

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

31 October 2021

Planted as a kitchen garden in 1765 by the first Countess of Ilchester, today Abbotsbury Gardens bring together rare and exotic plants from all over the world. Scintillate your senses with a visit to the world famous camellia groves and magnolias, enjoy a sedate stroll in the walled gardens or go wild for the stunning woodland valley views. The BBC's Alan Titchmarsh declared them to be 'one of the finest gardens I have ever visited'. See for yourself. If it leaves your green fingers itching for some action, you can choose from a superb range of quality plants at the Specialist Plant Nursery.

Sculpture by the Lake

8 July 2018

Visit this beautiful location to view these sculptures which demonstrate and individual artist flair. Set beside these picturesque lakes the sculptures unite with the environment.

Minterne House and Gardens

6 March 2009

Minterne House and Gardens nestle in a valley in the beautiful Dorset countryside, described by Simon Jenkins in 'England's 1000 Best Houses' as a "corner of paradise". The 18th Century gardens feature lakes, waterfalls, all kinds of rare trees and an incredible rhododendron collection. A profusion of spring bulbs and magnolias provide the colour in spring, followed by flowering Japanese cherries and streams lined with primulas and other water plants in summer. The garden is particularly noted for its autumn colouring. Open March to November.

Mapperton Gardens

6 March 2009

A terraced valley garden complete with grottos, a great lawn, topiary, croquet lawn, an orangery and 17th Century fish ponds, surrounding a Tudor/Jacobean sandstone manor house, home to the Earl and Countess of Sandwich. Used as a location in Jane Austen's Emma, Restoration and Tom Jones. Open March to October.

Kingston Maurward Gardens

6 March 2009

Formal gardens in the ‘Arts and Crafts' style of the Edwardian era in the grounds of Kingston Maurward House. Thomas Hardy was a frequent visitor to the house as a boy, and it features as 'Knapwater House' in his novel Desperate Remedies. Children can meet Button and Pebbles the donkeys in the animal park, as well as miniature Shetland ponies, goats, pigs, rabbits, ducks, emus and peacocks. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the large picnic area. There is also a refreshment kiosk, visitor centre and shop.

Compton Acres

6 March 2009

Ten acres of beautifully managed gardens including Italian, Roman, water and Japanese areas. Built in the 1920s by a margarine entrepeneur to reflect his worldwide travels and interest in horticulture, Compton Acres is a fine example of an historic garden in the late Victorian Mixed Style design.

Boscombe Cliff Gardens

An oasis of peace and tranquility in the heart of Boscombe, these gardens were originally opened in 1900 and merge with Boscombe Overcliff Nature Reserve leading into Italianate Gardens. Designated as a Local Nature Reserve this area is popular with dog walkers and has a resident herd of feral goats.

Furleigh Estate

An 85 acre vineyard in the heart of Dorset with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meurnier, Bacchus and Rondo grape producing vines. Please check their Web site for shop opening times and contact details for guided tours.

Old Smithy

A beautiful, streamside garden with ponds, mown paths and rustling trees which frame a lovely thatched cottage. Plan your visit carefully as it is only open for a few days each year through the National Gardens Scheme, however guests of The Old School House (1416) next door to this two and a half acre garden can arrange viewings at other times by appointment.

Upton Country Park

There's a whole raft of exciting things to do at this park, everything from walking the dog, a visit to the gallery, cycling, orienteering, nature, play and tree trails. If your exhausted after all that, stop for a nice cup of tea and a slice of cake in the tea room!