RHS Rosemoor Gardens  
RHS Garden Rosemoor
website: www.rhs.org.uk

Rosemoor is one of RHS’s three showpiece gardens in England. Located in the heart of the North Devon countryside, just south of Gt Torrington, lies a magnificent estate, made up of interlinking gardens. 

Each area has a different emphasis and beauty and together they form one large garden – “a garden for all the senses”.

The estate, once owned by Lady Anne Palmer, was donated to the society in 1988 and is visited by its former owner, now living in New Zealand, once a year. 

Rosemoor prides itself on the myriad of different species of flowering plants, including 200 varieties of rose.  The 40 acres will enchant and inspire all who explore its secrets.

A stroll around the estate will take about two hours.  Take a break in the restaurant or if the weather is clement, sit and eat your lunch in the picnic area.  There is also a shop to buy a memento of the day. 

Most, though not all, of the garden is suitable for wheelchair access which can be booked by telephoning ahead. 

More gardens to visit, all within easy reach of ORCHARD HILL HOTEL:

www.greatbritishgardens.co.uk Tapeley Gardens, Instow, home to a rich and fascinating variety of trees, shrubs, flowers etc

www.marwoodhillgarden.co.uk 20 acres of beautiful gardens with plant centre, 4m from Barnstaple

www.doctonmill.co.uk gold medal award winning flower gardens situated near Hartland

www.hartlandabbey.com NPI National Heritage award winner, abbey and gardens

www.nationaltrust.org.uk Arlington House - Regency house set in extensive grounds near Barnstaple

Dartington Crystal

website: www.dartington.co.uk

Your visit to Devon is not complete without a trip to the Dartington Crystal Factory at Torrington, whatever the time of year. There you will see how the molten glass is blown and fashioned into the unforgettable designs that make it the leading name in English crystal.  

As well as taking a tour around the factory and visitor centre, you can learn of the history of Dartington Crystal at the exhibition centre.  Get hands on at the activity centre before browsing the wares at the factory shop where you can buy first class or slightly imperfect pieces.  The pavilion restaurant serves food and drink throughout the day.