Early History
Established in 1765 by the first Countess of Ilchester as a kitchen garden for her nearby castle. Developed since then into a magnificent 20 acre garden filled with rare and exotic plants from all over the world. Many of these plants were first introductions to this country, discovered by the plant hunting descendants of the Countess.
The Garden Today
After the great storm of 1990, a major restoration project has been underway. many new exotic and unusual flowers have been introduced to this fabulous Dorset Garden.
The Garden is a mixture of formal and informal flowers, world famous for it's Camellia groves and magnolias. Noted in Dorset for its Rhododendron and Hydrangea collections and the charming Victorian Garden.
Facilities include the Colonial Restaurant, a quality gift shop and a superb plant centre where many of the flowers grown in the Garden can be purchased.
The Colonial Restaurant is also a superb wedding venue and is fully licensed.
Regular events take place at the Garden including the floodlighting of the Garden in October. Halloween is a major feature during the floodlighting when thousands of visitors dress in Halloween costumes and the Restaurant becomes a centre for Halloween celebrations.
Don't miss stunning views of the Dorset Jurassic Coast from the viewpoint at the top of Magnolia Avenue.
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General Information
DOGS are welcome on leads
Group rates available for parties of 10 or more.
Ample FREE parking for cars and coaches, usual courtesies extended to coach drivers.
Toilets Public, disabled and baby change facilities available at the Colonial Restaurant.
Approximately 50% of the Garden is accessible to disabled visitors, some of the gravel paths are difficult to negotiate. There is ramp access to the restaurant.
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Specialist Plant Nursery
 Superb range of quality flowers, many of which are home grown, and can be seen in the Garden. You can also browse the plant catalogue and purchase on-line. CLICK HERE
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Heroes Welcome at Abbotsbury.