Over 100 Dorset gardens open for the National Garden Scheme (NGS) each year helping us to raise vital funds for the nursing and healthcare related charities that it supports. These include large traditional country gardens, important historic gardens, tropical coastal gardens, cottage gardens, unusual urban gardens as well as rewilding projects and wildflower meadows. Here are some highlights from the July 2024 line-up, as well a special summer event.

Hilltop

Summer at Hilltop is a gorgeous riot of colour and scent, the thatched cottage barely visible amongst the flowers. Unusual annuals and perennials grow alongside the traditional and familiar, boldly combining to make a spectacular display.

Open: July 20, 21, 27 & 28 (2-6pm)

Where: Woodville, Stour Provost SP8 5LY

22 Avon Avenue

Japanese themed water garden featuring granite sculptures, ponds, waterfalls, water lilies and cloud topiary.

Open: July 28 (12-5pm)

Where: Avon Castle, Ringwood BH24 2BH

Black Shed

Admire over 200 colourful and productive flower beds growing a sophisticated selection of cut flowers including delphiniums, larkspur, scabious and dahlias alongside more unusual perennials, foliage plants and grasses to supply florists and the public for weddings and events. Advice on creating your own cut flower garden is happily shared.

Open: July 28 (1-5pm)

Where: Blackmarsh Farm, Dodds Cross, Sherborne DT9 4JX

Annalal’s Gallery

Step through a pencil gate into this Victorian walled garden, home to two Royal Academy artists, where sculptures and painting hide among the colourful flowers and shrubs. Mural of life-size greyhound makes the cottage easy to find.

Open: July 28 (2-4pm)

Where: 25 Millhams Street, Christchurch BH23 1DN

Find more details for all these gardens at ngs.org.uk

 

SPECIAL EVENT

Lulworth Castle House

Where: Lulworth Park, East Lulworth BH20 5QS

Farrs: Enjoy several distinctive walled gardens, sculpture and giant topiary around one of Beaminster's historic town houses. John Makepeace does a talk in the house on his renowned furniture designs and shows furniture and artwork. Then explore their well-designed garden where Jennie Makepeace has her pottery studio. Cream tea included.

Open: July 25 (2.30-5pm) Cost: £40

Where: 3, Whitcombe Rd, Beaminster DT8 3NB

Pre-booking for all these special opening is essential as tickets are limited book at ngs.org.uk and click on Special Garden Events