The monks who founded the monastery almost 900 yeasr ago certainly knew how to select a site in beautiful,secluded countryside!The house is steeped in history and worth exploring. We have visited in different seasons and enjoyed the varied areas of the very well maintained and interesting gardens. There is also a very good shop which also sells a selection of... More

We are repeat visitors to Forde Abbey and I have to say the gardens looked really lovely today. Clearly a great deal of work has gone into into the grounds over winter and it's paying off. The gardens looked fresh and well kempt, and we thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon there. We were very pleased to see the fountain in action... More

We thoroughly enjoyed our 2nd visit to Forde Abbey. Even though its early in the season so the gardens are not as pretty as they will be later in the year, we had a lovely day walking round the gardens and lakes. In the summer the grounds are quite stunning. More

I have been to Forde Abbey Gardens a couple of times, and the gardens are superb, I am going again before Christmas, as it will be opened on Dec llth and the cafe also, and will have christmas gifts there to buy. its the sort of place you can go to on your own and just wander through the gardens,... More

The house is well worth a visit, although the volunteers are very strict with the No Touch and No Photos Policy. Dogs can be brought into the garden, but they are not allowed in the house, unless they are Guide or Hearing Dogs. There is a cafe in the house, easily accessible for all. The Formal and Kitchen Gardens are... More

We're trying to save the planet and the economy by staying in the UK. We just wish more people would try to make our dogs as welcome as our wallets. Forde Abbey is a gem. Beautful gardens and no restrictions as to where we could wander with furry friends. Hubby lay under a tree while i looked round the house... More

Forde Abbey is located on the Dorset Somerset border close to Chard. It was once a rich and famous Cistercian abbey and after the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII became a private estate. The original abbey church has been demolished as have most of the cloisters, but the monk's living and working areas have been converted into a... More