Book your visit to these gorgeous Dorset gardens which are opening for the National Garden Scheme
Gardens across Dorset are beginning to reopen for the National Garden Scheme (NGS), helping to raise vital funds for their Help Support Our Nurses campaign. However, to conform with government guidelines, visitors will need to pre-book tickets for a timed slot at their garden of choice. Garden openings are updated weekly, so keep an eye on the website for the most up to date listings.
Lawsbrook, Shillingstone: Opening for over a decade for the NGS. You will find over 130 different tree species spread over this 6-acre garden. Native species and many unusual specimens including Dawn redwood, Damyio oak and Wollemi pine. Large borders, raised bed vegetable and flower garden. Wildlife, stream and meadow.
Open: Sunday 19 July, 10am - 4pm
6 Hillcrest Road, Weymouth: First year of opening for the National Garden Scheme this year. Typical suburban garden but with the sea at the end, allowing the cultivation of some exotic plants including strelizia, banana and Cobaea scandens. Fish pond, mature fruit trees, veg patch and soft fruit. Hot colours bed nearest the house is balanced by white bed at bottom of lawn. A mixed border of perennials and annuals runs down one side. Long grass area completes the mix of habitats.
Open: Sunday 19 July, 1 – 5pm
Hilltop, Stour Provost: Summer in this garden is a riot of colour and scent, the old thatched cottage is barely visible amongst the flowers! Unusual annuals and perennials grow alongside the traditional and familiar, boldly combining to make a spectacular display, which attracts an abundance of wildlife. The unique, gothic garden loo is one of the more surprising highlights.
Open: Sunday 19 July, 2- 5pm
Knitson Old Farm House, Corfe Castle: Mature cottage garden nestled at base of chalk downland. Herbaceous borders, rockeries, climbers and shrubs, evolved and designed over half a century for year-round colour and interest. Large wildlife friendly kitchen garden for self-sufficiency. Owner, Rachel, is delighted to welcome visitors, discuss all aspects of sustainable gardening, soil health and the benefits of gardening for mental and physical wellbeing.
Open: Wednesday 22 July, 12 noon – 3pm
The Hollow, Swanage: Wander round a dramatic sunken former stone quarry, in this hill top garden above the seaside town of Swanage. Stone terraces with many unusual shrubs and grasses, reveals the owners’ passion for plants and form a beautiful pattern of colour and foliage attracting butterflies and bees. Pieces of mediaeval London Bridge lurk in the walls. Steps have elegant handrails. Dogs allowed.
Open: Wednesday 22 July, 2-5pm
Remember, tickets must be pre-booked click here to find out more. If you love visiting gardens and want to escape the crowds this summer click here to find 13 more glorious gardens to visit across Dorset.
