Experience the colours of spring in Dorset’s gardens this season.
As the county awakens from its winter slumber, the gardens burst into life with vibrant colours, fragrant blooms and the gentle hum of wildlife – it’s a real feast for the senses.
Whether you’re a keen gardener, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Dorset’s gardens offer a truly enchanting experience.
Here are some highlights of what you can expect when exploring Dorset’s gardens during springtime.
Kingston Lacy
This National Trust property boasts extensive gardens and parkland that come alive in spring. The formal gardens at Kingston Lacy are a riot of colour with daffodils, tulips, and bluebells. Don’t miss the ancient Egyptian obelisk and the beautiful fernery. The Japanese Garden celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, and the pretty cherry trees here put on an impressive blossom display during spring.
Mapperton House and Gardens
Known for its romantic setting, Mapperton’s gardens are a blend of formal and informal styles. In spring, the Italianate garden is a sight to behold, with its terraces, topiary, and fountains. The woodland and spring gardens contain daffodils, crocuses, bluebells and primroses, offering a more natural experience.
Sherborne Castle and Gardens
Designed by the famous landscape architect Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, Sherborne Castle's gardens offer sweeping vistas and serene lakes. In spring, the daffodils, tulips and azaleas create a stunning display. The gardens also feature a charming orangery and a beautiful herbaceous border.
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Nestled in a sheltered valley, Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens are renowned for their exotic plants and stunning landscapes. In spring the camellias, magnolias and rhododendrons are in full bloom, creating a spectacular display of colour. The gardens also feature a charming Victorian walled garden and a serene woodland walk, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Exbury Gardens
Exbury Gardens is renowned for spring colour, with their world-famous collection of rhododendrons and azaleas reaching their peak in May. You’ll also see spectacular displays of camellias and magnolias, as well as hundreds of thousands of spring bulbs in Daffodil Meadow and the River of Gold.
Minterne Gardens
Known for its collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, Minterne Gardens is a must-visit in spring. The gardens are laid out in a naturalistic style, with winding paths, streams, and waterfalls. The Himalayan garden, with its exotic plants and tranquil atmosphere, is a highlight.
Forde Abbey and Gardens
This former Cistercian monastery boasts 30 acres of award-winning gardens. In spring, the Forde Abbey's gardens are a riot of colour with crocuses, daffodils and tulips. The walled Kitchen Garden, with its herbaceous borders and fruit trees, is particularly charming. The Great Pond, with its swans, ducks and geese adds to the tranquil atmosphere.
Athelhampton House and Gardens
These historic gardens are a perfect example of Tudor design, with their neatly clipped hedges and geometric layouts. In spring, the gardens at Athelhampton House are filled with the scent and sight of blooming roses. The river walk, with its views of the River Piddle, is particularly picturesque.
Compton Acres
Compton Acres offers a variety of themed gardens that transport visitors to different parts of the world. In spring, the Italian Garden is particularly enchanting, with its formal layout and vibrant tulips. The Japanese Garden, with its cherry blossoms and tranquil water features, provides a peaceful retreat. The viewpoint and seating area overlooking Poole Harbour gives far reaching views of Brownsea Island and the Isle of Purbeck beyond, and is a wonderful suntrap on a sunny day.
