Café at Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

A relaxed spot to eat, drink and enjoy the gardens

Set among the vibrant planting of the Gardens, the new Café at Abbotsbury is a relaxed, welcoming space to stop for a bite to eat, enjoy a fresh coffee, and take in the unique subtropical surroundings.

Planning a visit or simply dropping in for lunch or a coffee, the Café is open to everyone – no Gardens entry ticket is required.

Located within Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

Open daily from 10:00 am until 4.30 pm

Dog-friendly outdoor courtyard

No admission ticket required for Café entry

Fresh, local and seasonal food

Simple, delicious dishes served daily

The self-serve menu includes a whole host of homemade sandwiches, hot food, and cakes – all made with care and served in a welcoming, naturally beautiful environment.

You’ll find:

Freshly ground Full Circle coffee and a selection of Clipper teas
Dorset cream teas and classic cakes
Homemade loaf cakes and traybakes
Homemade sandwiches, a selection of hot food and specials
A variety of cold drinks from West Country Fruit Juice, San Pellegrino, etc. and local ice creams

Food made with gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan ingredients options are always available. If you have any dietary needs or allergies, please speak to our staff – we’re happy to help.

Plenty of outdoor seating – dogs welcome!

Enjoy year-round courtyard dining surrounded by nature

The Café’s outdoor courtyard is open all year, with plenty of seating, shade and shelter. Surrounded by subtropical planting, you’ll find an immersive garden setting like no other.

Dogs are more than welcome in the courtyard and Cafe, making it a great stop for dog walkers visiting Abbotsbury or just passing through!

Café Gallery: art inspired by the gardens

Inside the Café, you’ll also find our Café Gallery – a rotating exhibition space featuring local artists. The first artist on display is Helen Simpson, whose work reflects the colours, textures and natural beauty of flowers, inspired by the Subtropical Gardens.

Styled to reflect the plant collector era

The interior of the Café takes inspiration from the plant collector heritage that helped shape Abbotsbury. With botanical flourishes, natural materials and subtle period details, the space ties into the story of the Gardens and their remarkable collection of plants from around the world.