Rock Garden
This site originally started off as the marl digging site for building the Abbey. The Rock Garden itself was designed and created in 1923 around this site using the rocks unearthed on the estate and planted with alpines and trees for year-round interest. There are carpets of Crocus tomasinianus in spring followed by Cyclamen coum. Tulipa sprengeri takes the centre stage along with numerous Primula denticulata that are planted around the series of ponds that are set within the rockery. Through the year Narcissus pseudonarcissus, Fritillaria meleagrisfollowed by Lilium martagons and Cyclamen hederifolium add more interest to parts of the rockery that does not get full sun and on the sunny scree there is an ever-evolving mixtures of alpines throughout the year.
More Gardens at Forde Abbey
Rock Garden
Created in 1923 with estate rocks, ponds, alpines and seasonal planting for year-round interest.
Park Garden
Herbaceous borders, spring bulbs, specimen grasses and winter hellebores.
Bog Garden
Streams, historic monk-built watercourses, and seasonal planting from primulas to gunnera.
The Swirl
A monastic-inspired spiral garden with tulips in spring and wildflowers in summer and autumn.
Kitchen Garden
From monastic walls and Victorian glasshouses to fruit, flowers and vegetables.
Arboretum
A collection of fine trees and shrubs including Magnolia, Rhododendron and Cornus.
The Long Border
The Long Border by the Long Pond, with yews, dahlias, roses and the Ionic Tempietto.
Woodland Garden
Rhododendrons, camellias and azaleas, plus meandering paths and spring colour.
The Mount
The highest point in the gardens, with mature trees, planted beds and views towards the Abbey.
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