Families
Inspire a love of the outdoors in children of all ages as they explore our gardens, play area and log trail.
Something for all ages
Our beautiful 200 acre gardens offer the ideal place for children of all ages to let off steam and explore. They will also enjoy our play area located conveniently close to the Visitor Entrance, along with the log trail which was created by our gardening team. And when it’s time to slow the pace a little, travel by steam train to Dragonfly Pond, an official British Dragonfly Society ‘hotspot’, in search of dragonflies and damselflies.
Our exciting trails and events programme provide opportunities for the whole family to be creative together, and get closer to nature. See our What’s On page for more information, and ask at the Visitor Entrance about our free seasonal trails.
Our Gift Shop stocks a wide range of children’s books and souvenirs, along with imaginative ideas for rainy day activities and outdoor adventures alike.
Each of our four toilet blocks provide baby changing facilities, and Mr Eddy’s Restaurant offers a children’s menu with hot and cold options available.
For any family members with limited mobility, we offer a range of ways to make your visit more enjoyable. Please see our Accessibility page for details.
Explore Exbury —
Coming up at Exbury
Nutshell Easter Trail
March 28, 2026
April 12, 2026
Five Artists’ Exhibition
April 3, 2026
April 19, 2026
Weaving Spring Platters Willow Workshop
April 23, 2026
April 23, 2026
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?