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Forde Abbey Gardens

30 acres of fine shrubs, magnificent specimen trees, ponds, herbaceous borders, rockery, bog garden containing superb collection of Asiatic primulas, Ionic temple, working walled kitchen garden. England's tallest powered fountain.

Owner Info

Forde Abbey Gardens
Forde Abbey Gardens
Forde Abbey Gardens
Forde Abbey Gardens
Forde Abbey Gardens
Forde Abbey Gardens
Forde Abbey Gardens
Forde Abbey Gardens
Forde Abbey Gardens
Forde Abbey Gardens
Forde Abbey Gardens
Forde Abbey Gardens
Forde Abbey Gardens
Forde Abbey Gardens

About Forde Abbey Gardens

Forde Abbey, once a Cistercian monastery and then a family home since 1649, is set within 30 acres of award-winning gardens. Located on the banks of the River Axe, the garden presents something of interest and beauty throughout the year, from the carpet of early spring bulbs, and the striking summertime herbaceous borders fronting the Centenary Fountain – the highest powered fountain in England – to the glorious colours of the arboretum later in the autumn. Even during the winter months it is possible to enjoy the architectural splendour of the garden with its statuary, cascade of lakes, and Ionic temple, set against the magnificent backdrop of the Abbey itself. Much of the landscaping originates from the very earliest part of the 18th century and the work of Monsieur Beaumont. The water from the monastic Great Pond (used to power the Abbey mill) became the source for the cascades running finally down to the long pond with its vibrant herbaceous borders. The Rockery and Bog Garden are newer additions yet still offer a fine array of specialist plants, while the produce from the walled kitchen garden can often be sampled in the tearoom. For the newly-inspired gardener a range of rare and unusual plants can be purchased from the Abbey Nursery. Forde Abbey is situated 4 miles to the south-east of Chard and is sign posted from the A30 and A358.

Website:

https://www.fordeabbey.co.uk

Forde Abbey Gardens features

Location details

Forde Abbey Gardens,
Chard,
Dorset,
TA20 4LU

Directions to Forde Abbey Gardens
Signed off A30 Chard-Crewkerne & A358 Chard-Axminster. Also from Broadwindsor B3164.

Forde Abbey Gardens openings

No opening times available.

Accessibility

  • Please ask at reception for best wheelchair route. Wheelchairs available to borrow/hire, advance booking 01460 221699.
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FAQs

Payment is by cash only. Please get in touch with the owners for more details.

Yes, coaches are accepted at Forde Abbey Gardens. Please get in touch with the owners for details.

Yes, dogs are welcome at Forde Abbey Gardens. Please keep the dogs on fixed short leads in the garden and keep in mind that you are responsible for controlling the dog’s behaviour. For any specific rules please ask the owners.

Yes, there are various plants offerred for sale at Forde Abbey Gardens, please enquire with the owners for more details.

Yes, one or more routes at Forde Abbey Gardens are accessible to wheelchair users.

Yes. Forde Abbey Gardens seeks to offer a sustainable refuge for nearby fauna and wildlife. These sanctuaries host diverse habitats supporting indigenous flora and fauna and nurturing local biodiversity.