Open gardens in Dorset - April 2016

PUBLISHED: 14:51 24 March 2016 | UPDATED: 14:51 24 March 2016

The pond at Broomhill

Archant

Admire spring blossoms and bulbs in these six glorious Dorset gardens which open for the NGS this month

Edmondsham House

Six acres of mature gardens and grounds surrounding a 16th/18th century house, giving much to explore, including the 12th century church adjacent to the garden. Large Victorian walled garden is very productive and managed organically.

• Open: 6, 13, 20 & 27 April, 2-5pm

• Where: Edmondsham, Nr. Cranbourne, BH21 5RE 

24 Carlton Road North

Long garden on several different levels linked by steps and narrow sloping paths. Beds overflowing with shrubs and herbaceous planting reflect the owners’ interest in unusual plants, texture, colour and love of wildlife.

• Open: 9-11 April, 2-5pm

• Where: Weymouth, DT4 7PY 

Marren

Stout footwear and strong knees are recommended for this glorious four acre woodland garden with views of Weymouth Bay and Portland, which is reached from the National Trust car park via a steep public footpath and 64 steps. More formal planting around the house, with a wonderful arbour and Italianate courtyard, including a fountain and strong structural planting.

• Open: 16-17 April, 2-5pm

• Where: Holworth, Dorchester, DT2 8NJ 

Broomhill

This former farmyard is now a delightful tranquil garden set in 1 1/2 acres. Island beds are planted with shrubs, roses and masses of unusual perennials. Lawns and paths lead to a more informal area with a large wildlife pond.

• Open: 17 April, 2-5pm

• Where: Rampisham, DT2 0PU 

17 Lower Golf Links Road

A sloping town garden of about two thirds of an acre, created in a heathland suburb. It is particularly impressive in spring and early summer.

• Open: 21 & 24 April, 2-5pm

• Where: Broadstone, BH18 8BQ 

Uploaders Place

Old yews, cedar of Lebanon and a tulip tree form the bones of this relatively new garden created from wilderness since 1993. Admire trees and shrubs with unusual bark and flowers, and spring bulbs during a quiet contemplative meander with the River Asker flowing through.

• Open: 23-24 April, 2-5pm

• Where: Uploders, Bridport, DT6 4PF 

For other Dorset gardens open in April for the NGS please visit ngs.org. 

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