With 200 acres of woodland, herbaceous and formal gardens to enjoy, there’s always something new to see at Exbury. And with a narrow-gauge steam railway, a play area, log trail and riverside walks to explore, there’s something for everyone. Oh and we’re dog friendly too!
The warmer, brighter days of summer encourage the latest stars of the show to take centre stage.
As the perennials in the Herbaceous and Centenary Gardens step into the spotlight, in an endless array of colours and forms, the exotic inhabitants of the Sundial Garden begin to fill this beautiful, secluded space with pops of vibrant colour.
As the perennials get into their stride, the earliest of the hydrangeas begin to open on Hydrangea Walk, painting this area in muted pastel shades, and vibrant blues and pinks. All the while, throughout the gardens, chance encounters with rare and unusual plants never fail to delight.
As the weather heats up, head along the gardens’ many shady trails or enjoy the cool coastal breeze heading inland along the Beaulieu River as you make the most of our two beautiful river walks.
Our events —
Coming up at Exbury
Walk with Alpacas
September 7, 2025
September 28, 2025
New Forest Florilegium and Friends Exhibition
September 13, 2025
September 21, 2025
Willow Seed Heads Workshop
September 18, 2025
September 18, 2025
Book your visit
Tickets may be purchased on the day of your visit, but did you know that you qualify for a 10% discount if you book your visit online in advance? (Excludes Halloween Ghost train and Christmas at Exbury).
Explore Exbury —
Something for everyone
Gardens
There is always something new to see at Exbury. In spring, our world-famous collection of rhododendrons and azaleas sets us apart from other gardens.
Café & restaurant
Mr Eddy’s Restaurant, the Old Tennis Courts outdoor café, the Potting Shed*, Rhodo Pizza* and Charlotte’s Little Ice Cream Kitchen* are managed by award-winning local caterers The Little Kitchen Company.
Events & activities
We will be hosting a varied programme of events throughout the season, including school holiday workshops, family games and trails, creative workshops for adults, and theatre and music events.
Explore Exbury
More than 100 years in the making, Exbury offers a wealth of features to delight garden and nature lovers alike.
Visit the steam railway
Nothing beats the thrill of a real steam train ride.
Testimonials —
What visitors say
I went with my partner and her daughter. We had planned the day to (hopefully) get to see the Daffodil fields and the start of the Magnolias, Camellias and Rhododendrons.The three of us (all with health restrictions) had ordered mobility scooters (from Exbury) to assist us getting around the gardens. This was indeed a wise choice as we spent a very enjoyable 4 hours around the gardens even venturing to 'lookout point' that I had never been able to visit before!
The staff were friendly and helpful and we had the best day out.
Steve T
I had a delightful day at Exbury. The weather was pleasant, and the gardens were stunning. It was a busy Mother's Day, but all the staff were incredibly helpful and friendly.
Pamella
The gardens were just stunning. Magnolias and Camellias in bloom, some rhododendrons in flower, but loads more to come. A beautiful garden. Plus everyone working there were amazing.
Chris
Wonderful for a long leisurely stroll around beautiful greenery. Huge array of different plants and trees. Lucky to see an array of wildlife including very friendly robins. Some nice activities for children dotted about which is a nice touch to keep the kids entertained. Nice cafes. Plenty of toilets including accessible ones. The train is reasonably priced and a lovely addition to the venue.
All in all, worth a visit.
Bishop-Jones
Visited last weekend whilst on holiday in Dorset. We took the New Forest open bus tour from Brockenhurst which stops at Exbury Gardens and so pleased we did. Really beautiful gardens with extensive walks and a huge variety of plants and trees, excellent catering available on site and the added bonus of a ride on the cute little steam train. Thoroughly recommended.
Martin B
Beautiful and well kept extensive gardens. So much to see with wonderful rambling paths down to the river, where there are seats to sit and watch the wildlife on the shore.
Jacky R
We enjoyed a great day out celebrating our 41st wedding anniversary! A stunning garden with fantastic displays of rhododendrons, azaleas and camelias and a wonderful walk down to the Beaulieu River. All this plus friendly staff, delicious food in Mr Eddy's Restaurant and of course the steam railway.
Katy C
Visitors —
Group visits
Exbury offers the perfect day out for all groups, large and small.
Whether you’re a local garden society, coach operator, WI group or a big family wanting to take advantage of discounted admission, what better place to enjoy a group day out than at Exbury?
Get social —
