Bicton Botanical Gardens is a stunning 63-acre garden located in East Devon, England. The gardens were established in 1815 and have since become one of the most popular attractions in the area, drawing visitors from all over the world. This blog will take you on a tour of the gardens, highlighting some of the must-see features and explaining why Bicton Botanical Gardens is worth a visit.
One of the first things you’ll notice when you enter the gardens is the beautiful collection of trees. There are over 1,000 trees on the property, including some that are over 250 years old. The gardens are home to several national plant collections, including the National Collection of Hollies and the National Collection of Astilbes. The gardens are also known for their impressive collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, which bloom in the spring and provide a riot of colour.
Another must-see feature of the gardens is the Palm House. Built in 1825, this is one of the oldest surviving examples of a curvilinear iron and glass greenhouse. The Palm House is home to a range of exotic plants, including palms, cycads, and tree ferns. The temperature inside the Palm House is carefully controlled, so visitors can enjoy a taste of the tropics no matter what the weather is like outside.
One of the most popular attractions at Bicton Botanical Gardens is the miniature village. This charming display features over 40 miniature buildings, including a castle, a church, and a train station. The buildings are all intricately detailed and surrounded by beautiful gardens. Kids (and adults!) will love exploring the miniature world and spotting all the tiny details.
For those who enjoy a bit of history, the gardens are also home to a museum of agricultural machinery. This collection includes over 50 vintage tractors, as well as other farm equipment from the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum is a fascinating glimpse into the history of farming in the UK and is a must-see for anyone interested in rural life.
Finally, no visit to Bicton Botanical Gardens would be complete without a stroll through the Italian Garden. This stunning formal garden features terraces, fountains, and statues, all set against a backdrop of rolling hills. The Italian Garden is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Bicton Botanical Gardens is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Devon. Whether you’re interested in trees, exotic plants, history, or just beautiful gardens, there’s something here for everyone. With its impressive collection of national plant collections, historic Palm House, charming miniature village, fascinating museum, and stunning Italian Garden, this is truly a gem of the English countryside.
