No Ordinary Gardens!
Our gardens offer a unique, hands-on science lesson on diverse ecosystems. Learn about flora from around the globe, and inspire awe and curiosity.
A Fine Garden
Described by Alan Titchmarsh as "One of the finest gardens I have ever visited", Abbotsbury is a botanical treasure trove with a charming walled garden and many exotic specimens.
A botanical treasure trove with charming walled garden and many exotic and unusual speciesEducation Destination
With its own subtropical micro-climate and set in a sheltered woodland valley, the plant collection has been built up over the past 30 years with examples from all around the world. A mixture of formal and informal areas and especially noted for its Victorian Garden.
There are outstanding views of the Jurassic Coast from the viewpoint at the top of the Magnolia Walk. The Burma Rope Bridge, Mediterranean Bank and lily ponds are all exemplary features of the gardens.
Potted History
In 1765 a castle was built by the first countess of Ilchester overlooking Lyme Bay. A wall was then built to create a sheltered kitchen garden for the castle - and that walled garden is now the heart of the Abbotsbury that we know today. In 1808 fields surrounding the garden were enclosed and a programme of woodland planting began under the 3rd and 4th Earls of Ilchester, the latter being a foreign diplomat and keen botanist. He introduced many new species into cultivation from a wide range of countries. In 1913 the castle burned down and was eventually demolished in 1934. During World War II, part of the gardens were taken over by the Dorset Light Infantry Regiment.
Great Storm of 1990
Unfortunately, the great Burns' Day storm of 1990 caused a significant amount of damage, especially to mature trees, and a major restoration programme has been running ever since.
Accessibility
The paths around the garden are gravelled and some areas are quite steep due to the natural topography. However, a special wheelchair accessible route is signed, showcasing some of the key areas of the garden. Due to the gravel surfaces and gradients, only "all terrain" mobility scooters are permitted.