Larmer Tree Gardens

Larmer Tree Gardens is an 11-acre Victorian pleasure garden created in 1880 by General Pitt Rivers, and it was among the first privately owned gardens opened to the public in England. Families can wander its gravel paths past ornate historic buildings, a Roman temple, arches and secret garden corners, while peacocks roam freely across the lawns. Children can follow the Fairy Door trail or a poetry trail, with maps available at the main entrance. The gardens sit within the Rushmore Estate and Cranborne Chase, so there is open countryside to explore around the grounds. There is no café on site, so visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic, and a marquee with seating is available to picnic under. Free car parking is provided. The gardens are open only for part of the year, so check before travelling.