Devon’s Best Gardens

- Hartland Abbey & Gardens
From 1157-1539 the Augustinian canons lived and gardened in this beautiful, hidden corner of North Devon. In the 18th century woodland gardens were created on either side of the Abbey with woodland walks leading to walled gardens, built to be sheltered from the worst of the Atlantic gales. In the late 19th and early 20th century Gertrude Jekyll was a frequent guest at the Abbey and was instrumental in helping Lady Stucley create the intimate paths and small terraces of the Baronet’s Bog Garden, Victorian Fernery and Camellia Garden.
These days, the gardens are flourishing under Head Gardener Nigel Alford’s stewardship with help from the family and are a beautiful, peaceful place to visit, almost unchanged over the centuries.

- Stone Lane Garden
A spectacular 5 acre woodland and water garden on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, containing National Collections of wild-origin birch and alder. In summer the Gardens feature a prestigious Annual Summer Sculpture Exhibition presenting young and established sculptors’ work set within the arboretum. New plantings scattered across a hillside wildflower meadow add an extension to the established National Collection. Garden visitors can enjoy our volunteer-run tea room which when open in season serves delicious Devon Cream Teas.

- RHS Garden Rosemoor
This Devon garden is rich in horticultural heritage and could be said to have two faces: one designed more recently by the RHS and the other created over time.
You will experience the newest areas first, beginning with the multi-faceted Formal Garden and then the Stream Field and Lake to the north. These in turn lead toward the South West and Devon Orchards and the very popular Fruit and Vegetable Garden. Walking through the Underpass you discover the contrasting original garden of Lady Anne Berry, which consists of many garden ‘rooms’ that blend seamlessly into one.
With an excellent cafe and garden centre on site this is a fab day for any garden lover.

- Castle Hill Gardens
Castle Hill is situated amongst the beautiful North Devon landscape.
Discover 50 acres of enchanting landscape set against the beautiful 18th century Palladian house and explore scented pathways and majestic woodland. This is a garden for all seasons – highlights include the Millennium Garden, Devon’s longest Camelia hedge and Magnolia Wood. Wander by the river to the Ugley Bridge then climb to the Castle for magnificent views of Exmoor, Dartmoor and beyond. The house is currently home to the 17th generation of Fortescue family.

- National Trust – Knightshayes
A great post-war garden,19th-century parkland and grand Gothic Revival architecture by Victorian visionary William Burges.
A masterpiece of architectural planting, and home to one of the most outstanding botanical collections in the country. The Kitchen Garden was restored in 2001, this Victorian walled kitchen garden combines full productivity with aesthetic appeal.

- Bicton Park Botanical Gardens
With over 64 acres to explore spanning nearly 300 years of gardening history, Bicton Park is home to many rare and beautiful species, collected from around the world. Take a walk through the arboretum among some of the most majestic trees in the country, many designated champions of their kind in the British Isles. Meticulously cared for by a dedicated team of gardeners, Bicton ensures that each distinct area is tended to, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the botanical interests.

- National Trust – Castle Drogo
Where dramatic architecture meets innovative family home. A 20th century castle overlooking the Teign Gorge.
The gardens were created over 100 years ago and carved into the landscape, there’s something of interest to see in all seasons. Explore this ancient gorge, teeming with wildlife on trails along the river.
With a great cafe, fill up with a selection of hot and cold drinks, light lunches and snacks.

- The Garden House
The Garden House holds special seasonal delights all year round, from their famous Snowdrop Festival early in the year, to the magnificent Wisterias, Azaleas and Rhododendron in early summer, the herbaceous summer borders of the Walled Garden and later in the autumn, the Acer Glade with its striking ‘New England’ colours.
Stroll around the colourful, romantic gardens, including the Summer Garden, Cottage Garden, the Acer Glade (with its stunning autumn colour), the Walled Garden and the Jubilee Arboretum and you’ll enjoy finding new views at every turn.

- National Trust – Buckland Abbey
Discovery, tranquillity and history – Buckland Abbey is an ancient gem in the Tavy Valley landscape.
The Elizabethan garden, walled kitchen garden and wild garden areas with views of the Abbey and a wonderful place to spend the day. The natural play area created with wood from the estate, including balance beams and areas to run and explore, makes this the perfect day out with kids, with lots of child friendly events on throughout the year.