Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens & Swannery

Approximate Journey Time: 1.5 hours

Time at destination: 4.5 hours

Comfort stop: No

Drop off point: Swannery Coach Park

Your adventure begins in the morning from your local area, with a scenic journey to the stunning Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens and Swannery. You will arrive at The Swannery Coach Park around 11:30, conveniently located opposite the main entrance. Here, you’ll have approximately 2.5 hours to enjoy the serene surroundings of the swannery, highlighted by the magical 12:00 swan feeding and an informative talk about these majestic birds.

Following your time at the Swannery, the coach will transfer you to the enchanting Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant plant life and serene paths of this award-winning garden. With 2.5 hours of free time to soak in the tranquility, it’s the perfect spot for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts. Your departure from the Gardens Coach Park will be arranged by your driver on the day, rounding off a delightful day of discovery.

Abbotsbury Swannery is the only place in the world where you are able to walk through a colony of nesting Mute Swans.

A visit to the Swannery is considered one of the best things to do in Dorset.

The Swannery was established by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury during the 1040s. The monks farmed the swans to produce food for their lavish Dorset banquets. St Peter’s monastery was destroyed in 1539, during the dissolution. Some of the ruins are still visible around St Nicolas’ Church in the village. Since that time, the Swannery has been under the stewardship of the Ilchester Estates.

Our arrival is timed to enable you the the opportunity to witness the captivating feeding time at 12:00 noon.

The journey between the swans and the gardens initially involves a pleasant 3/4 mile walk, so comfortable footwear is essential for the day's activities. At the main entrance, you'll find a shop and a cozy coffee shop to further enhance your experience.

Abbotsbury Gardens are a mixture of formal and informal flowers, world famous for it’s Camellia groves and magnolias. Noted in Dorset for its Rhododendron and Hydrangea collections and the charming Victorian Garden.

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens has welcomed a new sculpture collection with the installation of two pieces by leading contemporary sculptor, Simon Gudgeon.