Forde Abbey and Gardens

Forde Abbey and Gardens A 900 year old Abbey set within 30 acres of award winning gardens. England's highest powered fountain
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Once described as "...the most perfect monastery in England", Forde Abbey is a beacon of elegant antiquity, set within the exquisite countryside of Dorset. Built almost 900 years ago by Cistercian monks, the Abbey still embodies the serenity and philosophy of the order who lived, prayed and farmed here. Walk in the actual footsteps of the monks as they carried out their daily duties in these medieval surroundings. Experience the wonderful English Gothic setting created by the Prideaux family when they transformed the austere Abbey into a post-Renaissance palace. From 1141 to the present day, Forde Abbey is a stunning example of history preserved but not petrified, where the Kennard family continues to live and work in an informal style and where visitors will always receive a warm welcome.

We are really excited about tomorrow, the weather forecast is looking spectacular and the gardens are looking wonderful....
04/09/2026

We are really excited about tomorrow, the weather forecast is looking spectacular and the gardens are looking wonderful.
We are looking forward to welcoming you all.

The Forde Abbey Autumn Plant & Gardening Fair
Saturday, 5th September
10:30am – 3:00pm

Your ticket includes admission to Forde Abbey’s stunning 30-acre gardens. Free parking. Last garden entry: 3:00pm.
Admission fee applies to all visitors.
Children 5 - 15 years are free.
Forde Abbey & Historic House Members enjoy FREE entry!

If you haven't already pre-booked, you can BOOK NOW -> https://www.fordeabbey.co.uk/events-module/2026/09/05/autumn-plant-and-gardening-fair

Join us this Saturday 5th of September, for our Autumn Plant and Gardening Fair! Set against the stunning backdrop of th...
03/09/2026

Join us this Saturday 5th of September, for our Autumn Plant and Gardening Fair!

Set against the stunning backdrop of the thirty-acre gardens in full bloom with herbaceous border, topiaries and England’s highest-powered fountain, this event features a wide variety of plants for sale by top local nurseries. With sunny skies and a dry forecast, it's the perfect day to explore the beautiful gardens.

At the fair, we have CB Plants and Catherine specialises in cottage garden perennials, culinary, medicinal and aromatic herbs and native wildflowers. Back by popular demand is Arc & Anvil Fabrication with their ornamental ironwork for home & garden all handmade in their workshop in Chard. We also have the lovely Joanna of Agar Tools with vintage garden tools and implements. There is something spectacular for everyone.

After your plant hunting and shopping, relax with a meal at our Abbot's Table Café or take a peaceful stroll through the grounds. Discounted entry applies to all visitors, and everything is included in the price.
Please note - Admission fee will apply to all visitors over 15years, including those visiting just the Café on the day.

As always, Forde Abbey and Historic House Members will have free entry on the day. You can prebook your tickets now at https://www.fordeabbey.co.uk/events-module/2026/09/05/autumn-plant-and-gardening-fair

Don’t miss this wonderful day at the Abbey!

02/09/2026

Competition Winner.
We are delighted to announce the Chard Guide and Health & Remedy competition winner. Please pop into Health & Remedy on Hollywood street to collect your voucher.
We look forward to welcoming you to Forde Abbey.

Have you prebooked your tickets to the Plant Fair yet?This year, we have a fantastic selection of nurseries and artisans...
02/09/2026

Have you prebooked your tickets to the Plant Fair yet?

This year, we have a fantastic selection of nurseries and artisans to choose from to add colour and interest to your gardens. The thirty acres of Forde Abbey gardens are at your perusal for inspiration to design your own garden. The Chelsea Gold Medal winner Gardeners Delight Nursery is here with a fantastic range of perennials, The award winning Mike's Hostas is here with a diverse range of hostas and our local nursery Peake perennials is also here with some reliable cottage garden perennials. To add structure and further interest to your garden the extremely skilled Dolton Designs with their beautiful steel structures and plant supports are also at the fair.

🍂🌸The Forde Abbey Autumn Plant & Gardening Fair is almost here! 🍂🌸
📅 Saturday, 5th September
⏰ 10:30am – 3:00pm

Your ticket includes admission to Forde Abbey’s stunning 30-acre gardens. Free parking. Last garden entry: 3:00pm. Children under 15 years are free.

Forde Abbey & Historic House Members enjoy FREE entry!

Book Here - https://www.fordeabbey.co.uk/events-module/2026/09/05/autumn-plant-and-gardening-fair

Have a wonderful day out and discover a diverse selection of plants, gardening treasures and inspiration for your autumn...
28/08/2026

Have a wonderful day out and discover a diverse selection of plants, gardening treasures and inspiration for your autumn garden.

The Forde Abbey Autumn Plant & Gardening Fair
Saturday, 5th September
10:30am – 3:00pm

Entry: £7.50
BOOK NOW -> https://www.fordeabbey.co.uk/events-module/2026/09/05/autumn-plant-and-gardening-fair

Your ticket includes admission to Forde Abbey’s stunning 30-acre gardens. Free parking Last garden entry: 3:00pm. Admission fee applies to all visitors, children under 15 years are free.

Forde Abbey & Historic House Members enjoy FREE entry!
Don’t miss this fantastic day for plant lovers and garden enthusiasts.

27/08/2026
Great Garden Trail of Dorset.Have you explored this month's theme on the Great Garden Trail of Dorset? We are celebratin...
26/08/2026

Great Garden Trail of Dorset.

Have you explored this month's theme on the Great Garden Trail of Dorset? We are celebrating Garden Features this August. Explore the trail this month and discover quirky and cool hidden garden features. Every garden on the trail has something fascinating and unique to offer.

Visit Forde Abbey and Gardens, Sherborne Castle and Gardens, Minterne House, Athelhampton House, Mapperton House, Gardens & Wildlands and Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, each offering a unique style and design.

Address

Forde Abbey And Gardens
Chard
TA204LU

Opening Hours

Monday 10:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 10:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 10:30am - 5pm
Thursday 10:30am - 5pm
Friday 10:30am - 5pm
Saturday 10:30am - 5pm
Sunday 10:30am - 5pm

Telephone

01460 220231

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