The 64 acre garden conserves of Bicton Park Botanical Gardens feature 18th-century formal gardens and stunning greenhouses. The soft sweeping lawns, water features, fragrant wild flowers, and formal gardens are a delight to walk around on a warm summer day. There's also a charming countryside museum and railway.
There are 5 display glasshouses. The famous Palm House dates back to the 1820s, older than the Palm House at the Royal Botanic Gardens of Kew. It's made from over 18,000 panes of glass, and is home to giant palms and blooming strelitzia. The park gardens themselves feature rare species collected from around the world.
The gardens were established in early 18th century, however, Bicton itself dates back more than 1300 years. Maintained by a team of gardeners, these historical gardens are split into separate areas. The Fernery and Shell House was a highlight. Nestled in a rocky glade,it's home to a flint Shell House containing an international collection of seashells from around the world.
Wandering through the winding paths of the arboretum, through to the hermitage garden, and onto the nature trail; it was a joy to witness the blooming rhododendrons, magnolias, and camellias in the gardens. As well as the seasonal displays bursting with summer colours. The wonderful thing about these gardens is that you're allowed to explore the grounds with your dog companion, and are even welcome in the cafe and shop.
I visited Bicton Park Botanical Gardens while staying in Lyme Regis. It was one of the highlists of my vacation and a visit I recommend anyone to make if in the local area. Seeing the gardens in full bloom at the height of summer was made even more wonderful by the fact that my companion could experience is all by my side. I only wish more botanical gardens were this dog-friendly. If you're curious about what else there is to do, read my travel guide to Lyme Regis, Dorset.
Photographs by Jack Spicer Adams.