Discover North Devon’s Glorious Gardens – Gentle Days Out from The Linhay

Marwood Hill Gardens, North Devon

For those who enjoy peaceful days out surrounded by nature, beautifully designed landscapes, and a good tearoom or two, North Devon’s gardens are an absolute delight. Whether you’re a keen gardener or simply love a slow stroll through inspiring outdoor spaces, there’s plenty to explore within easy reach of The Linhay at Butterhills Escapes.

Here are some of our favourite gardens to visit during your stay – they're all dog friendly, so your four-legged friend can join in too.

Marwood Hill Gardens

📍 Near Barnstaple | 🐾 Dog friendly on leads | 🔗 Website

Nestled in a tranquil 20-acre valley, Marwood Hill Gardens feels like a well-kept secret. Wander through winding paths, past three lakes, towering trees, and colourful borders. The camellia and hydrangea collections are especially impressive in late spring and summer.

Don’t miss: The tearoom terrace with views over the main lake – a perfect spot for a cream tea surrounded by nature and sculpture.

RHS Garden Rosemoor

📍 Torrington | 🐾 Dogs welcome on Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays (on short leads) | 🔗 Website

A real highlight for garden lovers, RHS Rosemoor offers 65 acres of beautifully curated gardens, from vibrant cottage borders to peaceful woodland walks. The kitchen garden is packed with heritage fruit and veg, and there’s always something in bloom no matter the season.

Special features: Seasonal exhibitions, an excellent plant centre, and a restaurant serving fresh, locally sourced meals. Booking ahead is recommended in peak season.

Tapeley Park Gardens

📍 Instow | 🐾 Dog friendly on leads | 🔗 Website

Overlooking the estuary with wide coastal views, Tapeley Park has a unique charm. The Italian terraces, permaculture gardens, and wild meadows are a joy to explore at a leisurely pace. It’s a little off the beaten track, which only adds to the feeling of discovering something special.

Look out for: The organic kitchen garden and the peaceful yoga lawn with benches to sit and soak up the surroundings.

Hartland Abbey and Gardens

📍 Hartland Peninsula | 🐾 Dogs welcome on leads in gardens and grounds | 🔗 Website

Rich in history and romance, Hartland Abbey is surrounded by gorgeous grounds that roll down towards the sea. Explore the walled garden, meander through woodland walks alive with birdsong, and follow the paths to Blackpool Mill beach for dramatic views of the Atlantic coast.

Top tip: The Old Kitchen Tearoom serves hearty lunches and cakes in a charming setting – perfect after a walk.

Docton Mill Gardens & Tearoom

📍 Near Hartland | 🐾 Dog friendly | 🔗 Website

Tucked into a wooded valley, Docton Mill offers a wonderfully peaceful garden experience. This award-winning spot is a real haven, with colourful borders, streamside walks, and a relaxed, informal atmosphere. The tearoom is well known for its homemade fare – especially the crab sandwiches and scones.

Best for: Quiet moments in nature, with beautiful planting and fewer crowds.

Clovelly Court Gardens

📍 Clovelly Estate | 🐾 Dogs welcome on leads | 🔗 Website

Above the iconic village of Clovelly lies this working Victorian kitchen garden, full of seasonal fruit, vegetables, and flowers. With ancient glasshouses, neat paths, and sea views, it’s a lovely complement to a visit down the cobbled streets of Clovelly itself.

Bonus: Entry to the gardens is included with village admission, making it a great full-day outing.

Return to Peace at The Linhay...

After your garden adventures, come back to The Linhay – your private retreat in nature. Whether you’re cooking a simple supper, reading under the trees, or watching the stars from the meadow, it’s the perfect way to end a gentle, fulfilling day.

With no WiFi, no crowds, and no rush – just birdsong, wildflowers, and endless skies – this is time well spent.

Ready to explore North Devon's gardens? We’re always happy to help you plan day trips and let you know what’s in bloom during your stay.