North Devon Hospice is inviting the entire community to explore its stunning five-acre grounds next month during a free Open Garden event that offers something for everyone. From 11am until 4pm on Sunday, June 7, visitors can discover one of North Devon's most lovingly tended green spaces, while enjoying a barbecue, cream tea, plant sale, kids trail, and much more.
A Hidden Gem in Barnstaple
Whether you are looking for a fantastic family day out or wish to visit North Devon Hospice for the first time, this event offers a chance to uncover one of the area's real hidden gems. Visitors can browse the extensive plant and garden sale, savor tasty home-cooked food on the beautiful decking overlooking the gardens, or simply explore every treasure the grounds have to offer. The gardens themselves are regularly described as a haven or sanctuary by families supported by the hospice. Now the whole community can discover this tranquil slice of paradise, nestled close to Barnstaple town centre.
Year-Round Care by Volunteer Gardeners
Cared for year-round by a dedicated team of volunteer gardeners, the hospice grounds are a place of real beauty. Fragrant flowerbeds, vibrant ponds, a cherry orchard, a kitchen garden, a children's play area, and much more await visitors. Mick Bennet, one of the volunteer gardeners, explains: "The hospice gardens are a place where people can slow down and connect with nature. From the colour and scent of the flowerbeds to the sound of the stream and children enjoying the outdoor space, every corner has been carefully tended to offer something special. Opening our garden to the community is something we look forward to every year. It's wonderful to see so many people enjoying the space we care for, and we hope lots of people will come and join us on Sunday, 7th June."
Life-Changing Spaces
These gardens are not just beautiful; they are genuinely life-changing. For patients supported by North Devon Hospice, the gardens provide immense comfort. They host many of the charity's supportive sessions, and every room on the hospice's Bedded Unit looks out onto the gardens with its own private balcony. This is a space for quiet reflection, gentle walks, and precious moments. Kerry Milton, senior staff nurse on the Bedded Unit, sees it every day: "The gardens are a beautiful place for patients and family members to have a peaceful moment, together or alone. They offer time to breathe and reflect. They bring patients joy even from their rooms, and many love to watch the wildlife attracted to our gardens. It's such a pleasure to share this with our whole community, and we hope that local people will come and enjoy what I think is one of the best-kept secrets in North Devon."
Event Details and Accessibility
Entry to North Devon Hospice's Open Garden event is completely free. Children are most welcome, as are dogs on leads. Food will be available throughout the day, along with a free Children's Trail and Q&A sessions with the hospice's Head Gardener. All paths are wheelchair accessible. For more information, visit the website: https://www.northdevonhospice.org.uk/events/north-devon-hospice-open-garden-2026/
Location: Barnstaple, Devon.
