Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Tucked into a sheltered woodland valley a short way from Chesil Beach, Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens are an RHS partner garden famous for a microclimate that lets palms, bananas and rare exotics thrive outdoors. Begun as a walled kitchen garden in 1765 and expanded over the centuries by the Ilchester family, they now spread across some 30 acres.
Highlights
- World-renowned collection of subtropical and Mediterranean plants
- Camellia groves, magnolias, rhododendrons and Victorian walled garden
- Red bridges, lily ponds and a hillside Magnolia Walk to a Jurassic Coast viewpoint
- Colonial-style café, plant centre and gift shop (free to enter)
- Dog-friendly on short leads; free car parking
A little history
The gardens grew from the kitchen garden of the Ilchester family’s castle. After the castle burned down in the early 1900s the gardens were maintained and, following storm damage in 1990, were replanted into the celebrated garden seen today.
Plan your visit
Open through the seasons with year-round interest, peaking spring to autumn, plus illuminated evenings in October. Check current opening times and tickets on the official site (opens in a new tab).
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