These beautiful gardens were begun by the famous nurseryman, Sir Harold Hillier, in 1953.
The collections, planted around his house and garden, grew and grew.
Today the 180 acre gardens contain 12,000 different species and a grand total of more than 40,000 plants making it one of the finest collections of plants to be found anywhere in the world.
The gardens have interest throughout the year and are particularly noted for their spectacular spring blossoms and wonderful autumn colour.
Other features of the superbly laid out gardens include a heather garden, a valley full of acers, scree beds, peat beds and a bog garden and wonderful rhododendrons, azaleas and magnolias.
Since 1977 the gardens have been held in trust by Hampshire County Council.
Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Opening TimesSummer - from 1 Apr: 10:00-18:00 (or dusk if earlier); Winter: 10:00-16:00. Last entry 1 hr before close
Tel: 01794 369 317 Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Website
