Over the coming months, gardens across Devon will be inviting local people to enjoy their green spaces and blooms – in return for a donation to Hospiscare.
Once again, it’s fully supported by Otter Garden Centres.
There are a wide range of gardens to visit, including beautiful estates, community gardens, and quaint cottage gardens. As well as admiring the stunning flora and fauna in each garden, visitors have the chance to exchange gardening advice and tips.
Many gardens also provide refreshments including hot drinks, homemade cakes and afternoon tea.
You can see our full 2026 guide here
The first garden to open this year for Hospiscare was Haldon Grange at Dunchideock near Exeter.
Despite some challenging winter weather, owner and head gardener Andrew Phythian says it’s definitely worth a visit:
“We have plenty to see. There are camellias, the rhododendrons are coming out, and quite a few magnolias are out. It will be slightly damp underfoot but, given the conditions we’ve had this winter, it’s to be expected.”
“We get so much positive feedback, which keeps us going through the winter nights and keeps us trying to turn the garden over so there’s something new for visitors who haven’t been for a few years. We just keep trying to improve it really.”
“There’s plenty to see in flower, and because it’s got a water stream, that adds to the effect, and you’ve always got that rippling sound of water.“
Among the other gardens taking part this year is Holcombe Court in Holcombe Rogus. It’s their 10th anniversary supporting Hospiscare, and they are hoping to raise more money than ever before.
Other gardens are opening in support of Hospiscare for the very first time this summer. They include Tiverton Castle, and Wellhayes Vineyard at Clayhanger which will be offering a full tour, wine tasting and a cream tea.
Laura Robertson, Fundraising Projects Manager at Hospiscare explains:
“Once again, we are incredibly grateful to our main sponsor, Otter Garden Centres, for their continued and generous support. This year marks the 10th anniversary of their partnership with us, and in that time the event has truly ‘blossomed’ into something very special.~
“It’s a wonderful community event, bringing people together while raising vital funds that make a real difference to the end-of-life care we can provide for patients and families across our local area.”
“Each year we’re amazed by the creativity and care that goes into the gardens on display, and it’s always a joy to see new gardens joining in and becoming part of the event and we couldn’t make this event happen without the kindness, time and enthusiasm of everyone involved.”
Through their ongoing support and various fundraising activities, Otter Garden Centres have helped support Hospiscare fantastically over many years.
Jacqui Taylor, Managing Director at Otter Garden Centres says:
“Supporting Hospiscare continues to be something we are incredibly proud of at Otter Garden Centres, having raised more than £120,000 during the last five years. We look forward to seeing the wonderful display of Open Gardens, all in aid of a cause that is very close to our hearts at Otter. Our dedicated team is proud to continue to support the outstanding work of Hospiscare, across Devon.”
“As an independent, family business rooted in the region for more than six decades, plants and gardening remain at the heart of what we do. Our commitment to protecting the environment, championing sustainability, and creating safe spaces for wildlife continues to grow. Hospiscare’s Open Gardens initiative reflects these values perfectly, offering a wonderful opportunity for nature and wildlife to thrive across the area’s beautiful gardens.”
Here is the full list of the 2026 Hospiscare Open Gardens:
