Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway


Partner Garden
Free access for RHS members at selected times

Summer Lane
Exbury
SO45 1AZ

200 acres

Tel
023 8089 1203

Visit website

Opening Hours

16 Mar–3 Nov. Please see website for opening dates and times.

Admission

Please see website for admission prices.

RHS members

Free access (member 1 only for joint memberships) applies Mar, Jun & Sep.

Facilities

  • Accessible facilities
  • Baby changing facilities
  • Children’s play area
  • Children's activities
  • Dogs welcome
  • Free carer entry
  • Gift shop
  • Group rates
  • Parking
  • Picnic area
  • Plant sales
  • Refreshments
  • Toilets

Features

  • Herbaceous border
  • National Plant Collections
  • Rock garden
  • Woodland

About the garden

Owned by
Marcus Agius

There is always something new to see at Exbury. In spring, our world-famous collection of colourful rhododendrons and azaleas set us apart from other gardens. These stunning shrubs are at their best in April and May, lining the paths with elegant flowers. Spring also sees a spectacular display of camellias and magnolias, and a stunning show of spring bulbs in Daffodil Meadow and the River of Gold.   

In summer, our 200 acres transform into a shady sanctuary of tranquillity. Don't miss our heavenly collection of hydrangeas, and the Iris, Herbaceous, Sundial and Centenary Gardens, all in bloom with a heady mix of perennials and exotic flowers.   

Wild Exbury: At Exbury Gardens there is a commitment to the encouragement of wildlife and a belief in a light touch so that natural environments can thrive. From spring to summer the bluebells, primroses, daffodils and wildflowers – including the green winged orchid – entice butterflies, bumble bees and many other insects. From midsummer to autumn the herbaceous borders become the focus of a buzzing frenzy while damselflies and dragonflies hover around the ponds.  

Of course, Wild Exbury doesn’t just refer to the outstanding nature of this wonderful garden. It is also a reference to somewhere which allows a level of relaxation for all the family not always possible in more formal environments. We have a playground, a log trail and meandering woodland paths for a truly immersive experience for all.

Please note: this garden is partially accessible. The garden has EV charging points.

Plants of special interest

  • Bluebells
  • Camellias
  • Cornus (for winter stems or spring bracts)
  • Daffodils
  • Dahlias
  • Heathers
  • Irises
  • Magnolias
  • Rhododendrons/azaleas
  • Spring bulbs
  • Wisteria

Get involved

The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.