Wildside Garden
Buckland Monachorum, PL20 7NP
Open: Weekends from 6th April – 29th October
www.wileyatwildside.com  

From a three-acre flat field to an undulating haven – Keith Wiley, ex-head gardener of The Garden House, brings an experimental take on the new naturalism gardening movement with this stunning garden. The goal: to work in harmony with nature inspired by sights from around the world. Expect native and exotic plants, tranquil ponds, and a variety of wildlife cultivated into three distinct areas – the Courtyard, the Lower Garden, and the 25ft high Canyons. The Canyons are also home to the Tribute Garden, dedicated to Keith’s wife Ros who passed away in 2019. This work in progress will encompass water, wildlife and vivid seasonal colour with the aim to open as a cancer respite garden in the future, pending sufficient funding. 

Castle Drogo Gardens
Drewsteignton, EX6 6PB
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/devon/castle-drogo

Step back in time and enjoy a snapshot of modern 1920s garden style at the National Trust’s highest elevation garden. The original garden design of circular lawns, granite steps, rose garden and rhododendron garden, created over 100 years ago, is still lovingly maintained and fully reopened after a period of conservation work. Learn all about the history of how it came to be through archive letters and more in the Luncheon House information room.

Marwood Hill Gardens
Barnstaple, EX31 4EA
Open: March – October
www.marwoodhillgarden.co.uk

This magical valley garden is centred around three peaceful lakes which attract a spectacle of wildlife, including Canadian geese. Its position spanning the valley allows for a diverse planting, from marshland and lakeside gardens in the centre with waterfall and scented arbour, to a collection of conifers, a camellia walk and Mediterranean beds. A walled garden adds to the variety, as do the sculptures and beehives which add to the mix. Accessible routes are available and a tearoom for lunch with a view. Don’t miss the beautiful bluebell garden soon to be in its prime!

Bicton Park Botanical Gardens
Bicton East, Budleigh Salterton EX9 7BJ
www.bictongardens.co.uk

A paradise for nature lovers and planting enthusiasts alike. The 64-acre garden boasts nearly 300 years of gardening history, plus an array of impressive and diverse plant species, including rare trees, shrubs, and seasonal flowers. See the serene ponds, the amazing Palm House made from over 18,000 panes of glass, and a walled garden featuring an extensive collection of fruit trees. There’s also plenty for the little ones, including a train ride!

RHS Rosemoor
Torrington, EX38 8PH
www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor 

This 65-acre garden is home to a diverse range of plants, including a large collection of traditional roses, herbaceous borders, and a fantastic fruit and veg garden. Visitors can also enjoy a woodland walk with excellent views, plus sculpture trail and national plant collections. Wheelchairs and powered mobility scooters are available to hire too to make use of the many accessible routes.