Bicton Park Botanical Gardens is a historic landscaped garden located near Exmouth in East Devon. It is known for its combination of formal gardens, glasshouses and extensive parkland. The site covers a large area and includes a mix of structured planting and more natural landscapes. It is widely visited for walking, horticulture and its quieter setting compared with larger attractions.
About Bicton Park Botanical Gardens
Bicton Park dates back to the eighteenth century and has developed over time into a botanical garden with a range of themed areas. The layout includes formal gardens close to the main entrance, with wider parkland, woodland and open spaces extending beyond.
One of the defining features of the site is its collection of historic glasshouses, which house a variety of plant species. The gardens also include areas reflecting different styles of planting, from formal layouts to more natural arrangements.
The scale of the site allows for a combination of shorter visits and longer walks, with paths linking the different sections. Its location in East Devon provides a relatively sheltered environment suitable for a wide range of plants.
What to See
Bicton Park includes a variety of garden features and landscapes within a large and accessible site.
Glasshouses – Historic structures containing a range of plant species in controlled environments.
Formal gardens – Designed areas with structured planting and defined layouts.
Woodland areas – Paths through trees and shaded sections with more natural planting.
Parkland – Open spaces providing contrast to the more enclosed garden areas.
Seasonal planting – Flower beds and displays that change throughout the year.
Practical Information
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens is located near Exmouth and is accessed by road, with parking available on site. It is well signposted and within reach of other East Devon destinations.
Admission charges apply, and facilities include a cafe, shop and visitor services. The site is family-friendly and suitable for a range of visitors.
Paths are generally well maintained and easy to follow, though the size of the gardens means a visit can take several hours if exploring in full.
When to Visit
The gardens are open for most of the year, with seasonal variation in planting and displays. Spring and summer offer the most colourful and varied plant life.
Autumn provides quieter conditions and changing foliage, while winter visits are more limited in terms of plant displays but still suitable for walking.
Summary
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens is a large and varied garden attraction in East Devon, combining formal design with open parkland and woodland. Its scale and layout make it suitable for both shorter visits and longer walks, offering a quieter alternative to more prominent garden sites in the region.