About Exbury Gardens
What started as the vision of one man soon became the work of 150 labourers, 60 specially trained gardeners, plant hunters, propagators and countless other contributors to what was to become one of the world’s finest gardens.
History & timeline
On 23rd April 1923, just four years into its construction, the plant hunter Frank Kingdon-Ward wrote to the Keeper of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh saying that Exbury Gardens will be “the eighth wonder of the world.” We like to think he was right!
For further reading, pick up a copy of The History of Exbury Gardens or The Eighth Wonder of the World, both available from the Exbury Gardens Gift Shop.
The de Rothschild Family
The family rose to prominence in the early nineteenth century when the five sons of Mayer Amschel Rothschild established a partnership of banking businesses in Frankfurt, Vienna, Naples, Paris and London. Whilst the senior partner of the London bank, Lionel de Rothschild, great-grandson of Nathan Mayer Rothschild, the third son of Mayer Amschel Rothschild, declared himself to be a “a banker by hobby and a gardener by profession.” The rest, as they say, is history…
Corporate & media
We are always keen to work with influencers, journalists and photographers who share our passion for horticulture, and for Exbury in particular.
About Exbury —
Garden news
Days of Steam 2025 – What a weekend that was!
Exbury Gardens marks diamond anniversary of its famed Azalea Bowl
Exbury rhododendrons win at RHS Rosemoor
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.