Welcome to Forde Abbey

Forde Abbey in Dorset is a treasure in an area already known for its outstanding beauty. It is also a family home, and a living and breathing working estate. 

Please explore our website to see what you can experience on a day visit here:  a family outing in beautiful Dorset, a trip to our plant nursery, tasty refreshments in our tearoom - hopefully you will find something for all the family. If you have any questions or cannot find something on the website please email  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  or call us on 01460 220231.

The gardens are now coming into their own since we have had some sunshine, with glorious shrubs bursting into bloom. The rhododendrons at the top of Blacksmith's Hill are beautiful, the Rockery is full of flowers, and the Bog Garden is well worth a visit. The newly-mown lawns show the topiary to particular advantage.

Opening Times

The Gardens

The Gardens are open every day throughout the year from 10am. Last admission is at 4.30pm and they close at 6.30pm.

The House

The House is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays, and Bank Holiday Mondays, from 12 noon with last entry at 4pm.

Tearoom, Plant Centre & Gift Shop

The Tearoom, Gift Shop and Plant Centre are open daily.

The Shop and Plant Centre are open to all visitors from 10am-5pm, with the Tearoom open to paying visitors from 11am-4.30pm.

Don’t forget to look at our Upcoming Events for the latest news, especially the Masterclass with our artist-in-residence, Simon Casson.

Tickets for the Concert Society’s programme are now on sale; please see the Concert Society page for details.