Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens shouldn’t exist. This far north, palm trees and exotic plants from five continents have no business thriving, yet they do, spectacularly. Sheltered by coastal hills and warmed by Gulf Stream influence, these 20 acres create a microclimate where rare specimens from around the world flourish.
Established in 1765, successive generations became obsessed with collecting exotic plants from global expeditions – particularly the Himalayas, China, South America, and Australasia. What emerged is a living botanical collection of international significance.
Walking the winding paths feels like traveling between continents. Tree ferns create prehistoric atmosphere. Groves of bamboo rustle in coastal breezes. Palm trees—palm trees in Dorset!—reach impressive heights.
The Seasonal Magic: Spring brings camellias, magnolias, and rhododendrons in explosive colour. Summer brings lush tropical atmosphere. Autumn offers rich foliage colour. Even winter has appeal with structural evergreens.
Useful info:
Time needed at destination: Half day
Average travel time: 45 minutes
Nathan and Laura's English tip:
We can combine Abbotsbury with Chesil Beach, the Swannery, or other Dorset coast attractions. For photographers, spring morning light through the blooms is absolutely magical. This is one of those hidden gems that surprises people with its quality.
