Marwood Hill Garden

About Marwood Hill Garden

Nestled in the heart of North Devon, Marwood Hill Gardens are a hidden gem, and must see for visitors and locals alike.

Home to four National Plant Heritage collections and numerous Champion trees, these private valley gardens span over 20-acres. Showcasing three stunning lakes, sculptures, rare trees & shrubs, and colourful surprises throughout each season, Marwood Hill Gardens is a delight.

Winners of a Gold Medal, as well as being awarded a ‘Best in Show’ at Hampton Court in 2023, Marwood Hill Gardens in probably best known for its incredible Astilbe collection, as well as its National Collections of Iris Ensata, Tulbaghia and its very own Marwood Collection.

Created by and home to the late Dr Jimmy Smart MBE, VMH, a much-celebrated 20th century plantsman, Dr Smart drew inspiration from his extensive travels to Australia & New Zealand creating the wonderful gardens we see today.

From the moment the first snowdrops poke their little noses through into spring until the rich autumnal tints and shiny fat berries of autumn, there is so much to see throughout the year to surprise and delight both enthusiastic gardeners and casual visitors. The magnificent display of blossom from the massed camellias and rhododendrons is followed by a stream of colour in the bog gardens, as carpets of primulas and iris in all the colours of the rainbow burst forth. The National Collection of Astilbes follows in a foamy symphony of pastel hues and hydrangeas on the hillside. Other highlights include the picture-perfect Wisteria Arbour and Herbaceous boarders.

The team at Marwood garden with wildlife in mind and believe that providing habitats for them is extremely important. Tucked away around the gardens are piles of branches and mounds of leaves, home to lots of lovely bugs and beasts. Kingfishers are regular visitors to the lakes and the areas of rough grass provide both food and hibernating sites for the young of many butterflies and moths. Not only a haven for wildlife, the gardens are also the perfect environment to explore, get back in touch with nature and be inspired.

Visitors can catch up over tea and coffee, homemade cakes, Cream Teas, and other light bites in the picturesque and award-winning Garden Tearoom.

Marwood Gardens also have their own Walled Garden Nursery and Plant Sales, where their team of experienced gardeners are always available to provide support and advice. Take full advantage of the being able to take a bit of Marwood magic home with you! Many of the plants for sale are propagated from the rare and unusual specimens admired in the garden.

Enjoy a day of inspirational and relaxation for the whole family.

Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome.

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