Crosswater Farm

About Crosswater Farm

Crosswater Farm was bought derelict by David’s parents, Ted and Romy Millais in 1947. They soon started raising Rhododendrons and Azaleas, and over the next 50 years, they developed a wonderful collection of their favourite plants, including new introductions from their plant collecting expeditions to the Himalayas. Slowly the garden extended further into the canopy of tall pine woodland. Vistas and ponds were created on this low lying sandy acid heathland soil.

The peaceful woodland garden bursts into life in the spring with colourful Rhododendrons and Azaleas, with additional interest through the year from Sorbus, Magnolias, Cornus and Japanese Maples. The garden features several ponds and a stream, with interesting vistas throughout.

The gardens have seen much recent development during the past few years with a new entrance and services, new wildflower meadow, and significant replanting of trees, shrubs and bulbs throughout the gardens.

The garden provides the showcase for the adjoining Millais Nurseries which grows one of the largest ranges of Rhododendrons in the world, growing more than 900 different varieties ranging from tiny alpine gems up to large specimen sizes. These are available from the specialist plant centre. The nursery holds a Royal Warrant for the supply of Rhododendrons and Magnolias to HRH The (former) Prince of Wales.

Refreshments available
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