Bicton Park Botanical Gardens

Bicton Park is a 300-year-old estate near Budleigh Salterton, now run as botanical gardens open to the public. The grounds combine formal 18th-century landscaping with later Victorian additions including glasshouses, an arboretum and ornamental plantings. The gardens cover around 60 acres, with walks extending through different landscape styles from formal terraces to woodland. A narrow-gauge railway runs through the grounds, adding a heritage transport element to the horticultural displays.

The formal gardens and glasshouses

The Italian Garden forms the centrepiece of the formal area, laid out in geometric patterns with low hedges, gravel paths and a reflecting pool. This terrace dates from the early 18th century and remains largely unchanged. From here, views extend across the American Garden, planted with rhododendrons, camellias and other acid-loving shrubs that provide seasonal colour.

The Palm House is a Victorian glasshouse containing tropical and sub-tropical plants, including tree ferns, palms and cycads. Separate houses display temperate plants, cacti and succulents, and Mediterranean species. These glasshouses allow the gardens to show plants from different climate zones alongside the outdoor collections. The glasshouses remain warm year-round, making them particularly appealing during cold or wet weather.

Arboretum and woodland

Beyond the formal areas, an arboretum contains mature specimen trees collected over two centuries. Labelling identifies species and origins, with some specimens being among the largest or oldest of their kind in Britain. The Hermitage Garden and Pinetum extend the tree collection into more naturalistic planting. Woodland walks lead through these areas, with paths varying from maintained gravel to rougher earth tracks.

The gardens include a stream garden where moisture-loving plants grow alongside watercourses. Seasonal interest varies across the site, with spring bulbs, summer herbaceous borders, autumn tree colour and winter structural plantings ensuring year-round appeal.

Railway and facilities

The Bicton Woodland Railway is an 18-inch gauge railway running for approximately 1.5 miles through the gardens. The line uses a mixture of steam and diesel locomotives, depending on the day and operational requirements. A separate fare applies for railway tickets beyond garden admission. The railway operates on most days when the gardens are open, with more frequent services during peak season.

Other attractions on the site include an indoor play area for children, a countryside museum with agricultural implements and rural life displays, and a maze. These add family-oriented activities beyond the garden interest.

Practical information

Bicton Park opens most of the year except for a winter closure period, typically January. Check the website or phone 01395 568465 for current opening days and times. Admission charges apply, with separate tickets for the railway. Annual passes are available. The gardens have a restaurant, cafe, shop and toilets, with baby changing facilities.

On-site parking is free. Most paths are accessible for wheelchairs and mobility scooters, though some routes through woodland are rougher. The formal gardens and glasshouses have good accessibility. Bicton Park allows dogs in certain areas of the grounds on leads, but not in the formal gardens or glasshouses. Check current dog access rules when visiting.