THE LARMER TREE GARDENS

Created by General Pitt Rivers in 1880 as pleasure grounds for "public ‎enlightenment and entertainment" the Larmer Tree Gardens are an extraordinary ‎example of Victorian extravagance and vision. The garden contains a wonderful ‎collection of ornate buildings, majestic trees and intimate arbours, retained in an ‎enchanted timeless atmosphere.

The Larmer Tree once represented an ancient boundary between Dorset and ‎Wiltshire and tradition states King John (1189-1216) hunted in this area many ‎times and met with his huntsmen under the branches of the "Larmer Tree".

Throughout the year there is plenty to interest visitors. From the magnificent main ‎lawn radiate wide laurel-hedged rides which take you to the tranquil woodland ‎beyond. In spring a wonderful display of Camellias, Rhododendrons and woodland ‎planting is there to be enjoyed. In high summer the hydrangea collection makes a ‎striking display of colour, and towering over the ponds the exceptionally fine ‎Eucryphias make a magnificent sight. The trees and shrubs of the garden and ‎woodland beyond produce a rich tapestry of colour for our autumn visitors.

Set in the outstanding landscape of the Cranborne Chase these beautifully laid out ‎grounds are recognised by English Heritage as a Garden of National Importance ‎and were the first privately owned gardens to be opened for public enjoyment. In ‎keeping with its history of entertainment a small number of events and summer ‎concerts are held within the garden throughout the year. For more information ‎please see Forthcoming Events Planned for 2009.