Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens & Plant Centre

Discover Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens & Plant Centre, a unique destination for plant lovers nestled close to Dorset's Jurassic Coast. Unlike a traditional garden centre, Abbotsbury combines a specialist Plant Centre with 30 acres of historic subtropical gardens, home to thousands of unusual plants from around the world.

The Gardens have an extraordinary history stretching back more than two centuries. Their origins lie in a sheltered walled kitchen garden, before the surrounding landscape was developed during the 19th century by generations of the Fox Strangways family. Plant collecting became an important part of Abbotsbury, with rare and exotic species introduced from countries across the world. By the end of the 19th century, the collection had grown to thousands of different plants.

Today, Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens is home to more than 6,000 species. Its location less than a mile from the sea creates a distinctive microclimate, helping a remarkable variety of exotic and subtropical plants thrive on the Dorset coast. Visitors can wander through woodland, ponds and colourful planting, with the Gardens particularly known for their camellias, magnolias, rhododendrons and hydrangeas.

The specialist Plant Centre offers the opportunity to take a little piece of Abbotsbury home. Many of the plants available are propagated on site using seeds and cuttings collected within the Gardens, including plants directly descended from specimens growing throughout Abbotsbury. Alongside more familiar garden favourites, visitors can discover unusual subtropical varieties, hardy ferns, shrubs, trees, succulents and perennials that can be difficult to find elsewhere.

Plants are grown and selected by Abbotsbury's own nursery team, who can also offer advice on choosing suitable varieties and caring for them at home. Seasonal plants are sourced locally where possible, supporting other growers within Dorset.

Visitors don't need a ticket for the Gardens to explore the Plant Centre, with free entry available to the Plant Centre, Café and Gift Shop. The Café provides a relaxed place for coffee, lunch or cake surrounded by subtropical planting, while the Gift Shop offers gifts, homeware and locally inspired products.

Combining centuries of horticultural history with specialist plant growing and one of Dorset's most distinctive gardens, Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens & Plant Centre offers something very different from the traditional garden centre experience.