Forde Abbey and Gardens

Forde Abbey and Gardens A 900 year old Abbey set within 30 acres of award winning gardens. England's highest powered fountain
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Once described as "...the most perfect monastery in England", Forde Abbey is a beacon of elegant antiquity, set within the exquisite countryside of Dorset. Built almost 900 years ago by Cistercian monks, the Abbey still embodies the serenity and philosophy of the order who lived, prayed and farmed here. Walk in the actual footsteps of the monks as they carried out their daily duties in these medie

val surroundings. Experience the wonderful English Gothic setting created by the Prideaux family when they transformed the austere Abbey into a post-Renaissance palace. From 1141 to the present day, Forde Abbey is a stunning example of history preserved but not petrified, where the Kennard family continues to live and work in an informal style and where visitors will always receive a warm welcome.

28/05/2026

A few roses from the gardens, flowering beautifully this morning, they really are embracing this wonderful weather.

We are delighted to inform you that we are featured in an episode of Escape to the Country which will be airing on Wedne...
27/05/2026

We are delighted to inform you that we are featured in an episode of Escape to the Country which will be airing on Wednesday 27th May 2026 on BBC One at 3pm. We hope you enjoy it.

FORDE ABBEY CONCERT – The Soldier’s TaleThe second Forde Abbey Concert of the year is here and it promises an outstandin...
27/05/2026

FORDE ABBEY CONCERT – The Soldier’s Tale

The second Forde Abbey Concert of the year is here and it promises an outstanding evening of chamber music. Pianist Julian Milford is joined by acclaimed Spanish clarinettist Maximiliano Martín and Marcus Barcham-Stevens, leader of Britten Sinfonia, for a varied and exciting programme.

The concert features the Suite from The Soldier's Tale by Igor Stravinsky, inspired by Russian folk tales and centred on a soldier’s struggle with the devil. The programme also includes Fantasiestücke by Robert Schumann and Violin Sonata No. 1 in G major by Johannes Brahms. The evening concludes with Contrasts by Béla Bartók, originally written for Benny Goodman and renowned for its fiery, gypsy-inspired finale.

The concert begins at 7:30pm, with hall doors opening at 6:30pm. Seating is unreserved.

The bar will be open from 6:30pm, with refreshments also available during the interval.

Guests are welcome to picnic in the gardens before the performance. The Undercroft will also be open from 6pm for those who would prefer to picnic indoors or in the event of bad weather.

The last Forde Abbey Concert was a grand success, do not miss the opportunity to book tickets now: https://www.fordeabbey.co.uk/events-module/2026/06/11/forde-abbey-concert-the-soldier-s-tale

Experience the beauty of the Great Dorset Garden Trail this May, where six stunning gardens each offer their own distinc...
26/05/2026

Experience the beauty of the Great Dorset Garden Trail this May, where six stunning gardens each offer their own distinctive charm and character. Celebrate the finest of Dorset’s trees and shrubs, from spectacular flowering displays and vibrant spring colour to rare species and magnificent mature landscapes.

Take in peaceful walks, fresh seasonal scents, and inspiring planting ideas as the gardens burst into life with all the richness and beauty of May. Whether you are a passionate gardener, a plant enthusiast, or simply searching for a wonderful countryside day out, the Great Dorset Garden Trail offers an unforgettable experience for everyone.

Discover six of Dorset’s must-visit gardens, showcasing the very best of English garden design, planting, and heritage.

Forde Abbey and Gardens Sherborne Castle and Gardens Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens Minterne House Mapperton House, Gardens & Wildlands Athelhampton House

Make the most of this Bank Holiday weekend with a glorious day out at Forde Abbey!Explore thirty acres of award-winning ...
22/05/2026

Make the most of this Bank Holiday weekend with a glorious day out at Forde Abbey!

Explore thirty acres of award-winning gardens, where sweeping vistas, sculpted topiary, tranquil lakes and ponds create one of the most beautiful garden settings in the country. Right now, the gardens are bursting with colour as the spring flowering shrubs reach their spectacular peak, with rhododendrons and azaleas looking absolutely magnificent.

The first roses are beginning to bloom, and the herbaceous borders are on the verge of an incredible summer display, making this the perfect time to visit and enjoy the season at its finest.

After exploring the gardens, relax at the in-house Abbot’s Table Café, open daily from 10am–5pm, serving delicious cakes, bakes, light bites and homemade cream teas throughout the day, with lunch available from 12pm.

With a sultry sunny weekend forecast, there is no better excuse to gather family and friends and enjoy a memorable day out at Forde Abbey.

Tickets are discounted when booked online in advance from www.fordeabbey.co.uk

20/05/2026

In early March on our Great Dorset trail post we shared a video of our gardeners Ellie and Louisa weeding and mulching the borders in the Rock Garden, in blowing wind and biting showers. Well, a few weeks later we can finally witness the results after their hard work.

The Rock garden is looking splendid this morning.

✨ An Evening of World-Class Chamber Music ✨ LAST OPPORTUNITY TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS!Known for their exceptional artistry, ...
19/05/2026

✨ An Evening of World-Class Chamber Music ✨

LAST OPPORTUNITY TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS!

Known for their exceptional artistry, passion, and captivating performances, Trio Bohémo have been winning hearts across Europe. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience live classical music at its finest along with thirty acres of beautiful gardens at Forde Abbey included in the price.

Whether you are a classical music lover or simply curious to try something new, this promises to be a warm, uplifting, and memorable evening.

Join us for a night of inspiring music!

📅 Date: 21st May
🎻 Beautiful music, great atmosphere, and a chance to unwind together in the gardens

Tickets can be purchased at:
https://www.fordeabbey.co.uk/.../forde-abbey-concert-trio...

BOOK NOW!

18/05/2026

This week why not take a quiet pause amongst the fiery orange azaleas, where every path glows with colour and calm, carefully planted around England’s highest-powered fountain.

Wander through the gardens, breathe in the stillness, and enjoy a few tranquil moments surrounded by the warmth and beauty of spring flowering shrubs.

🌿 Gardens open daily from 10:30am to 5pm, last entry at 4pm.
Book tickets online in advance at a discount from www.fordeabbey.co.uk

Discover the beauty of the Great Dorset Garden Trail this May, featuring six wonderful gardens each with their own uniqu...
15/05/2026

Discover the beauty of the Great Dorset Garden Trail this May, featuring six wonderful gardens each with their own unique charm and character. This month we are celebrating the very best of Dorset’s trees and shrubs, from magnificent flowering specimens and vibrant spring colour to rare varieties and breathtaking mature landscapes.

Enjoy peaceful walks, seasonal scents, and inspiring planting ideas as the gardens come alive with the richness and beauty that May has to offer. Whether you are a keen gardener, plant lover, or simply looking for a perfect day out in the countryside, the Great Dorset Garden Trail promises a memorable experience for all.

Visit the top 6 must see gardens in Dorset showcasing the very best in English Garden design, planting and history.

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens Minterne House Athelhampton House Mapperton House, Gardens & Wildlands Sherborne Castle and Gardens

Step into a sea of colour and scent at Forde Abbey this week, where the magnificent wisteria are now in spectacular full...
13/05/2026

Step into a sea of colour and scent at Forde Abbey this week, where the magnificent wisteria are now in spectacular full bloom. Wander through the gardens and discover cascades of blooms draped across ancient walls, climbing elegant supports, and trailing beautifully through the borders. From delicate lilacs to rich purples and soft whites, every variety brings its own charm and the perfume in the air is simply unforgettable.

After exploring the gardens, treat yourself to something delicious in the café. Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and homemade cake, indulge in a traditional cream tea with scones baked fresh every morning, or stay for lunch served daily from 12 noon.

The outdoor seating of the café is a destination in itself, thoughtfully designed like a garden retreat, with tables and chairs nestled amongst the planting for a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. There is even a dedicated area for visitors with dogs, so four-legged friends are very welcome too.

Gardens open daily from 10:30am
Café open daily from 10am

Come and experience one of the most beautiful weeks of the year at Forde Abbey.

Address

Forde Abbey And Gardens
Chard
TA204LU

Opening Hours

Monday 10:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 10:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 10:30am - 5pm
Thursday 10:30am - 5pm
Friday 10:30am - 5pm
Saturday 10:30am - 5pm
Sunday 10:30am - 5pm

Telephone

01460 220231

Website

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