Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway

Exbury Gardens spans 200 acres of spectacular woodland, herbaceous, contemporary, and formal gardens in Hampshire’s New Forest fringe—a celebration of horticultural ambition and botanical diversity. Created and managed by the Rothschild family for over 100 years, Exbury is renowned for its world-famous collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias: spring brings explosive colour; summer delivers herbaceous borders and hydrangeas; autumn reveals acers and nyssa. But Exbury transcends single-season interest—there’s always something in flower, always botanical drama. A narrow-gauge steam railway travels through garden heart, offering aerial perspective and nostalgic charm. The riverside location bordering the Beaulieu River adds landscape dimension. Play areas, fishing ponds, and family activities make Exbury accessible beyond serious gardeners—it’s a destination where garden enthusiasts and families converge. The garden aesthetic balances naturalism (paths meander through woodland feeling effortless) with horticultural sophistication (rare plant varieties and specimen placement reveals deep knowledge).

Location Details

• County: Hampshire
• Postcode: SO45 1AZ (Summer Lane, Exbury Estate, New Forest National Park; near Beaulieu)

Gardens & Collections

• Rothschild Horticultural Legacy: Created by Lionel de Rothschild (1882–1942), the gardens represent 100+ years of botanical collecting and horticultural expertise. The rhododendron collection is world-renowned—over 3,000 specimens representing species from across Asia. The azalea collection similarly comprehensive.
• Seasonal Highlights: Spring (March–May) brings rhododendrons and azaleas at peak bloom—explosive colour creating almost unreal landscape. Summer features herbaceous borders and hydrangeas. Autumn delivers foliage drama and acers. Winter reveals garden structure and evergreen interest.
• Woodland, Contemporary & Formal Gardens: Beyond the famous spring bloomers, themed garden areas explore different horticultural approaches. Contemporary plantings use modern aesthetics. Formal areas reveal classic garden design principles. Woodland walks navigate through natural forest atmosphere.
• Steam Railway: A narrow-gauge railway (replica Victorian ‘Exbury Central’ station) travels through gardens offering both entertainment and elevated perspective. Riders see garden landscape from train perspective—flowers at middle-distance rather than intimate close-up.
• Family Attractions: Log Trail for children, adventure play area, fishing ponds with giant koi and golden orfe, seasonal activities (alpaca walking, summer garden games). Accessibility includes mobility scooter rentals (small fee).

Good to Know

• Entry: Adults from £14.50, children from £6.50 (prices vary seasonally). Online booking discounts available. Steam railway £7.50 extra. Free parking for annual members.
• Hours: Open 7 March–31 October 2026, 10am–5:30pm (last admission 4:30pm). Closed November–February.
• Duration: 3–4 hours typical for comprehensive visit. Steam railway ride extends experience. Many visitors spend half-day exploring multiple themed areas.
• Facilities: Newly refurbished restaurant, outdoor café, plant centre (buying souvenirs), picnic areas. Accessible facilities including mobility scooter rentals.
• Getting there: By car (primary access). New Forest proximity makes it naturally paired with New Forest exploration. Train to Beaulieu then taxi/bus. Cycle-accessible approach.
• Accessibility: Mobility scooter rentals available (small fee). Some paths uneven; accessibility maps provided showing step/surface info. Wheelchair-accessible sections available.

Eat, Drink & Stay Nearby

On-site restaurant and café provide refreshments. New Forest towns (Beaulieu nearby) offer dining options. Combining Exbury with New Forest exploration creates natural multi-day itinerary. New Forest accommodation ranges from forest cottages to traditional inns throughout the area.

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