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Gardens in Abbotsbury, Dorset
Abbotsbury Sub Tropical Gardens
Abbotsbury
Dorset
DT3 4LA
Tel: +44 (0) 1305 871387
Fax: +44 (0)
Email: click here
Abbotsbury Sub Tropical Gardens online: information and bookings
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.
Facilities
Wheelchair access at the site can be difficult in places due to steep gravel paths. Toilets for wheelchair users are provided.
Restaurant
THE COLONIAL RESTAURANT
Perfect for lunches, snacks or drinks (fully licensed).
Available for evening hire. Tel: 01305 871732.
This restaurant is very special, constructed in the colonial style, built of timber with a raised veranda overlooking the beautiful Gardens. Ample seating inside, on the veranda and in the courtyard where wild birds congregate hoping for a share. We are able to offer very special meal arrangements to compliment the events that take place during the season.
Weddings and Conferences
The Gardens offer a unique, stunning setting for your special day and a spectacular backdrop for your photographs. From a small intimate service and reception to a large event - all can be arranged to the highest standard.
The Oak Pavilion, with its elevated position and 'aisle-like' access walkway is the perfect place for the ceremony. There are other unusual buildings within the Gardens, such as the Summer House, that are also fully licensed.
Smaller intimate receptions can be catered for in the Colonial Restaurant after 6.00p.m. (this may be flexible) until 9.30p.m. Larger receptions and/or evening parties can be arranged on the West Lawn - the ideal location for a marquee. Whatever the case, guests can have exclusive use of the 30 acre Gardens after 6.00p.m.
Opening Times
Open every day except 22nd December to 1st January inclusive, 10am to 5/6pm of 4pm during the winter. Please ring to confirm closing time (01305 871387).
Last admissions one hour before closing.
Further Information
GIFT SHOP
A superb range of quality gifts, books and stationery at sensible prices. The shop is a treasure trove of traditional and inspirational gifts.
The shop also overseas plant and flower sales from the Garden Plant Centre.
Many of the flowers on sale can be seen growing in the Garden and around the restaurant.
In case of alteration, please check prices, opening times and any specific important information before booking or visiting
Go Back to Dorset?
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Places to Stay near Abbotsbury Sub Tropical Gardens
The Old Ship Inn, WeymouthBirch House Bed & Breakfast, Weymouth
Squires Lodge, Weymouth
The Smugglers Inn, Osmington Mills
IIchester Arms, Abbotsbury
