Furzey Gardens
Furzey Gardens
4.5
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
Located in Minstead, Hampshire, in the heart of New Forest yet just off the end of the M27, this informal 10 acre woodland garden contains an extensive collection of rare and beautiful plants from around the world. In the spring, banks of Azaleas and Rhododendrons dazzle with colour, secret paths lead through drifts of primulas and bulbs to quiet glades, while viewing areas provide outlooks over the New Forest. Flowering shrubs and trees continue the interest through the summer with a blaze of autumn colour at the end of the year.In the water garden flowering and foliage plants thrive both in and out of the lake, enhanced by a collection of conifers.Our award winning Chelsea Garden has been wonderfully recreated overlooking the lake after winning GOLD at RHS Chelsea in 2012.The waterfall leads into our reinstated water meadow.The gardens are wonderful for children. The shady play area has play houses, swing and even a "dry docked" play boat. There are plenty of places to picnic and play hide and seek. The gardens also hold a secret, there are over 30 tiny fairy doors hidden throughout the garden. Our wildflower meadow and cottage garden are great for spotting wildlife and you can take a step back in time when you enter our historic Furzey cottage. Delicious locally made cakes and sandwiches are available in the Gallery Gift and Coffee Shop, which has plenty of seating inside, comfortable sofas upstairs and a pretty outside terrace overlooking the gardens. Browse the Gallery Gift and Coffee Shop which showcases and sells a variety of local art, crafts and gifts including work undertaken by the students from the Minstead Training Trust. Those visitors who like to go home with a souvenir of the leafy variety will enjoy looking around our plant sales area where plants are very competitively priced. The Gardens are open all year round, and the Gallery Gift and Coffee Shop is open from the beginning of March to the end of October 7 days a week from 10am to 5pm (last orders at 4.15pm). The Gallery Gift and Coffee Shop is free to enter and browse and enjoy a coffee, cake or light refreshment. Entry to the Gardens is by a set minimum donation, please pay in the Gallery Gift and Coffee Shop. When the Gallery Gift and Coffee shop is closed please place donations in the box provided. The entry donation goes towards the upkeep of the gardens and to the work of the Charity in providing opportunities for adults with learning disabilities.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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- Ann S1 contributionGood day out with friendsEnjoyed a lovely visit to Furzey garden. Beautiful walk round even as an adult it was fun looking for all the fairy doors. Ate at the cafe which was good, the staff all friendly and welcoming.Thank you for taking the time to leave we are delighted that you enjoyed searching for fairy doors. We look forward to welcoming you again on your next visit.Written 31 May 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 19 May 2023
- Susan WSouthampton, United Kingdom52 contributionsA charming and tranquil garden.Our first visit to Furzey Gardens did not disappoint. The garden was a haven of tranquillity and there was a huge variety of plants. The rhododendrons were looking spectacular and we were given a guide of shrubs to take note of. We were able to take a leisurely walk around the winding paths, sitting on benches occasionally, through the new meadow (complete with alpacas) and down to the small lake. Fairy doors and other structures gave added interest. Staff were friendly too. The only downside was the large queue for the tea room, so we didn't stay for refreshments.Thank you for your review. We are delighted that you enjoyed your visit and enjoyed our spring plant display. We apologise for the long queue at the tea rooms, we have found ourselves to be extremely busy with the nice weather and we are just a small team, however we are looking at ways that we can make improvements. We hope to welcome you to the gardens again soon.Written 31 May 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 23 May 2023
- Greenfrogs76Southampton, United Kingdom13 contributionsLovely dayI live local in Southampton and decided to go to Furzey Gardens for a half term visit and it was a lovely day out. Took about 1 1/2 hours to complete the fairy door trail which is on this summer. Great trail and some well hidden doors. Stopped off for a picnic and then a second walk around. Then an ice cream at the end.Thank you for leaving a review. Great to hear that you enjoyed your half term visit and enjoyed finding the doors. Look forward to you visiting again soon.Written 14 June 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2023Travelled with familyWritten 1 June 2023
- Halcyon6 contributionsDelightful meanderings at Furzey GardensThis was a return visit after a gap of several years. The whole of Furzey Gardens is a delight, full of colour and interest. I could while away a few hours just observing the wildlife on and in the pond - dragonflies, damselflies, a grey wagtail, tadpoles, all there amongst the water lilies. Wandering through the centenary meadow was great too, as was the beautiful and creative fairy doors exhibition trail. No queues in the cafe on a midweek term time visit and the slice of gluten-free carrot cake carefully placed in a cardboard box for me to take away to enjoy later was delicious.Thank you for leaving us a review. We are delighted to welcome you back and so pleased to hear that you enjoyed meandering around the gardens. Hope to see you again soon.Written 14 June 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2023Travelled soloWritten 8 June 2023
- Travel_HappyRomsey, United Kingdom275 contributionsLovely gardensLovely gardens and nice tea room. The gardens were bigger than we thought they would be which was a nice bonus. Admission cost is confusing though, as it says suggested donation (not worth £9.50 each!) but there was no one to take the money even if you did want to donate! Maybe because it was a Sunday or something, I’m not sure. Worth a visit, but the suggested donation is far too high.Thank you for taking the time to leave a review and to hear that you enjoyed your visit to the gardens. We are sorry that there was not a Welcome Host on the gate to welcome you to the gardens and that you feel our suggested entry donation is too high. All entry donations go towards the cost of maintaining the gardens and keeping them open to the public as well as supporting our wider work enabling people with learning disabilities to live independent and fulfilling lives.Written 5 July 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2023Travelled with familyWritten 20 June 2023
- Abigail SNew York City, New York179 contributionsPerfect for the whole familyWe loved our trip here. The kids, 2 and 4, had a brilliant time exploring, playing in the play area and alpaca spotting. The grandparents enjoyed the wide variety of plants including unusual ones. And the parents were delighted to have several vegan options in the cafe, a high quality and attractively priced shop for souvenirs. Great range of plants in the garden centre too. Such a wonderful place to visit. Thank youThank you for your review - we are delighted that the whole family enjoyed their visit, we hope that you can visit us again soon.Written 5 July 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2023Travelled with familyWritten 30 June 2023
- Traveler59567735734Yarmouth, United Kingdom1 contributionTranquil setting with lots of interest.Lovely visit , lots of fairy doors to find. Great variety of plants and some beautiful trees. Kids playpark looked great, shame we didn't have any kids with us. Interesting plants and gifts to buy in the cafe. Check out the lunch deal.Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We are delighted that you enjoyed your visit and the variety of plants and trees in the gardens.Written 5 July 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 30 June 2023
- Andrew DLondon, United Kingdom20 contributionsAlpacas and Rhubarb!We loved how friendly the staff were while we walked around the gardens and meeting the alpacas and seeing the chilean rhubarb! The cafe had a ten person line which put us off at the end. They is some unusual plants, very colourful.Visited July 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 17 July 2023
- nnmercmanCamberley, United Kingdom13,826 contributionsSomething for all agesThe gardens are handily located just off the A31 near Cadnam. The approach road is quite narrow but the car park is a decent size. There’s a cafe with outside and inside seating and also a plant sales area. The grounds are larger than you might think and if you have children looking for the “fairy doors” then it will certainly take a while to get round! The large childrens play area will keep youngsters happy and active. The only toilet facilities (unisex) are inside at the back of the cafe and a queue can form on busy days. We had free entry to the gardens as part of our RHS membership but entrance prices were reasonable in my opinion (especially if you have children in tow).Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We are delighted that you enjoyed your visit.Written 7 September 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited August 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 11 August 2023
- Emmalj31Christchurch, United Kingdom13 contributionsAwesome Apple Juicing Event!!Had THE BEST afternoon at Furzey Gardens today! Apple juicing, autumn crown making, prepping wool for spinning, tree climbing, splatting maggots 😆 and seeking out the new sculptures. This place is always awesome and, without exception, the staff are all so friendly and helpful 🍎😍 Would 💯 recommend!!Thank you for your lovely review and recommendations. We are delighted that you enjoyed events at our Apple Weekend. Look forward to seeing you again soon.Written 6 November 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 15 October 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
553 reviews
Excellent
371
Very good
116
Average
38
Poor
19
Terrible
9
Rebecca M
2 contributions
Dec 2023 • Family
Had an amazing day today, visiting with my daughter, and two young grandsons. We had a lovely time finding all the beautiful fairy Christmas trees, and enjoyed a delicious jacket potato in the cafe. Thankyou for lovely memories
Written 6 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michelle H
Herne Bay, UK342 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
You have to book on line as there is only a small car park so it doesn't get over run with cars, was met by a wonderful, chatty, friendly lady who gave us maps, special interest plants how and where to locate them, and explained how the entrance fee supports the special needs volunteers. Garden is beautiful, very well kept, lots of benches to sit and chill. A cafe, only bought drinks so can't comment on that, but they were well priced. There was lots of statues, hidden fairy doors, nice size and not steep so perfect for my disabled husband.spent a lovely few hours there and would go back if we're that way again
Written 21 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We are so pleased to hear that you enjoyed your visit, we would love to welcome you back again should you be in the area.
Written 6 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Emmalj31
Christchurch, UK13 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
Had THE BEST afternoon at Furzey Gardens today! Apple juicing, autumn crown making, prepping wool for spinning, tree climbing, splatting maggots 😆 and seeking out the new sculptures. This place is always awesome and, without exception, the staff are all so friendly and helpful 🍎😍 Would 💯 recommend!!
Written 15 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your lovely review and recommendations. We are delighted that you enjoyed events at our Apple Weekend. Look forward to seeing you again soon.
Written 6 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sightsee381396
5 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
Cannot beat the hill top setting and views of its own gardens; cream tea though was very plasticky and detracted a little to what was otherwise a nice experience; will definitely revisit and hope next time to have a cream tea a little more him made and with out the throwaway/single use carton
Written 8 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review, we are delighted that you enjoyed the view from our terrace. We are sorry to hear that your experience with the cream tea detracted from your visit. We will feed your comments back to the tea room manager for consideration.
Written 6 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jooleej
Leigh on sea6 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
We were staying nearby and really wanted to visit. Unfortunately due to the no dogs policy we were unable to go. Instead we went to Compton Acres which was lovely. The no dogs policy will put of a lot of holiday makers.
Written 4 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We are sorry that you were unable to visit due to our policy for no dogs. We are always keen to hear peoples feedback and use it to make plans for the future. We do hope that you will be able to visit us if you are in the area another time.
Written 7 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
lindypindydbwoods
Hartley Wintney, UK162 contributions
Aug 2023
The whole magical layout was spellbinding . A super place to take grandchildren and grand parents alike. Lovely trees and flowers and kind and helpful staff.
Written 26 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review, we are delighted that you enjoyed your visit.
Written 7 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
nnmercman
Camberley, UK13,826 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
The gardens are handily located just off the A31 near Cadnam. The approach road is quite narrow but the car park is a decent size. There’s a cafe with outside and inside seating and also a plant sales area. The grounds are larger than you might think and if you have children looking for the “fairy doors” then it will certainly take a while to get round! The large childrens play area will keep youngsters happy and active. The only toilet facilities (unisex) are inside at the back of the cafe and a queue can form on busy days. We had free entry to the gardens as part of our RHS membership but entrance prices were reasonable in my opinion (especially if you have children in tow).
Written 11 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We are delighted that you enjoyed your visit.
Written 7 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Meander10547791509
1 contribution
Aug 2023 • Family
Lovely few hours with daughter in law and Granddaughter. Looking for the fairy doors and enjoying a lovely lunch in the cafe. Looking forward to our return
Written 10 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review - we are also looking forward to your return visit :-) Hope to see you again soon.
Written 7 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Duncan Y
Ringwood, UK85 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
The weather doesn’t matter!
Our granddaughters 8 & 4 had great fun finding all the ‘fairy houses’ and they loved the ‘Artists Impressions’
A play area just added to their enjoyment
A total 5***** experience- despite the drizzly rain 😀
Our granddaughters 8 & 4 had great fun finding all the ‘fairy houses’ and they loved the ‘Artists Impressions’
A play area just added to their enjoyment
A total 5***** experience- despite the drizzly rain 😀
Written 8 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lou Lou
29 contributions
Jul 2023 • Friends
Beautiful little place,wonderful to support the cause.Please respect that no dogs are allowed.
Fabulous for adults and children.
Fabulous for adults and children.
Written 25 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robert H
2 contributions
How much does it cost
rachel1982
Southampton25 contributions
Adults £8
Children 5-16yrs £4.50
These are suggested donations and you are able to adjust the amounts if booking online (it is however charity run)
I also received an email the evening after visiting offering the option to upgrade to annual membership for an additional £15.
What is the entrance price
Clare Y
Southampton, UK
Hi
Thank you for your question. Entrance to Furzey Gardens is by donation. We suggest a donation of £8 for adults, £4.50 for children and under the age of 4 suggested donation is free. The entrance donation goes towards our work to support people with learning disabilities who help to maintain the gardens.
patriciaraynsford
Southampton, UK22 contributions
Is it flat and ok for a person with a lung condition which makes walking up slopes difficult?
Martin_Joan
Worcester, UK118 contributions
Slopes down to pool, then flat with gentle slow rise behind house back to car park. I use ambulatory oxygen and needed it for the return to the car park. I would suggest that for anyone with COPD it would be difficult on the return leg if not supported by oxygen. It is a beautiful place, free entry to blue badge holders as they support people with learning difficulties. Worth going to sit and admire the garden from the lawn or tea room. Good luck.
twomillers
Eastleigh, UK9 contributions
Are the gardens pram friendly?
selinarivers
London, UK4 contributions
Hello, yes you can take a pram but it will be a bit bumpy!! The paths are not paved, they are more like dirt walking tracks and it's a bit up and down, but certainly they are wide enough for a buggy. You could always take it and if it's too much, leave it at the cafe/reception area to collect on the way out.
Regards,
Selina
Gemma
London, UK45 contributions
Hello -is the cafe and part of the garden accessible for motorised wheelchair user? Many thanks
PGbythesea
Kent, UK17 contributions
A phone call to check would be advisable. However, in my opinion, I would say that the cafe and part of the garden, but maybe not all, are definitely accessible by motorised wheelchair, but there are a lot of winding paths. There are grassed areas, some gravelled paths and some wooden walkways. We met some people pushing wheelchairs and they found it very hard work in parts but obviously being motorised would make it a lot easier.
patriciaredington
Southampton, UK1 contribution
how much is it for a OAP
307middleton70
Dorset, UK158 contributions
You have to pay regardless of age but it is for a very good cause
Are dogs allowed on a lead?
Tinkerbell
England23 contributions
Don’t think so. Whoever suggested leaving the dog in the car and that they “can be checked on” - please don’t do this people!! Just leave the dog at home and enjoy this beautiful place or take them elsewhere in the forest this time
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Claim your listingFURZEY GARDENS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Furzey Gardens
- Furzey Gardens is open:
- Sun - Sat 10:00 - 16:00
- Hotels near Furzey Gardens:
- (1.74 mi) Twin Oaks Guest House
- (0.54 mi) Travelodge Stoney Cross Lyndhurst
- (2.49 mi) Lyndhurst House
- (0.61 mi) The Trusty Servant
- (3.04 mi) Hurst End Bed & Breakfast
- Restaurants near Furzey Gardens:
- (0.61 mi) The Trusty Servant Inn
- (2.61 mi) Renoufs (Lyndhurst)
- (2.63 mi) The Forage
- (2.65 mi) Peggy Mays Cafe
- (2.46 mi) The White Rabbit