Abbotsbury Swannery 
Where rare plants thrive in a unique coastal setting
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, Dorset
Tucked into the hills of the Jurassic Coast, Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens is one of the most distinctive RHS Partner Gardens in the South West. Set across 30 sweeping acres, the gardens flourish in a sheltered microclimate less than a mile from the sea. The unique setting, both milder in winter and cooler in summer, supports an extraordinary collection of over 6,000 plant species from around the world.
The gardens are best known for their towering gunnera, magnolia groves, camellias, hydrangeas, and the spectacular 36-metre rope bridge that stretches across the largest pond, bringing a sense of exploration and fun to each visit. Open daily from 10am to 4pm (last entry at 3pm), the garden is accessible throughout the seasons and offers plenty to see all year round. RHS members benefit from free access between October and February.
Add a stop at the on-site café or browse the Plant Centre, which features homegrown and hard-to-find varieties. Many of the plants are propagated on site, making them well-suited to UK gardens – and a lasting reminder of your visit.
Mapperton Estate, Dorset
An award-winning estate garden with views over the valley
Mapperton, near Beaminster, is a great visit for lovers of formal garden spaces. Voted Historic Houses Garden of the Year in 2020, the grounds at Mapperton blend Italianate terraces with a wild, wooded valley. With a manor house, orangery and sprawling borders, the garden has plenty of historical intrigue and plant varieties to spot across the seasons.
Forde Abbey & Gardens, Somerset
A monastic legacy with vibrant, formal borders
Forde Abbey offers 30 acres of finely kept gardens surrounding a former Cistercian monastery. Located near the Dorset-Somerset border, the garden is home to one of the country’s highest-powered fountains, colourful herbaceous borders and a productive kitchen garden.
Minterne Gardens, Dorset
A quiet valley garden with global planting
Minterne Gardens sits in the Cerne Valley, surrounded by woods and gently flowing water. Originally planted by generations of explorers and plant collectors, it’s a peaceful spot where Himalayan rhododendrons, azaleas and magnolias thrive. The setting feels secluded and timeless, ideal for slow, reflective walks.
Athelhampton House & Gardens, Dorset
A historic manor with formal garden ‘rooms’
Near Dorchester, Athelhampton is a Tudor manor house surrounded by 5 acres of award-winning gardens. Laid out in 1891, the gardens include formal walled spaces, water features, and bold planting. The Great Court, with its 12 yew pyramids, adds plenty of drama and spectacle, while the Edwardian kitchen garden supplies the on-site restaurant. The South Walk was recently replanted in 2023, inspired by renowned horticulturist and garden designer Gertrude Jekyll.
Save on visits and explore more with your pass
Making the most of RHS membership in the South West
With an RHS membership, you gain free access to over 200 partner gardens across the UK, including several exceptional sites in the South West. Member offers vary by garden and date, so always check the RHS Partner Garden Finder online before planning a visit.
For garden lovers in Dorset and beyond, Abbotsbury Gardens stands out for its unique climate, rare planting and immersive visitor experience. From specialist plant sales to scenic walks and year-round interest, it's a garden that offers something different – and rewards return visits.
Posted on December 5th 2025
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