Blandford Hidden Gardens

Blandford's Hidden Gardens on Sunday June 7th is an opportunity not only to visit a number of private gardens of all shapes and sizes, but also to explore the fascinating town built alongside the river Stour. Famous for its Georgian town centre, completely rebuilt after a major fire in 1731 and including its recently refurbished Grade I listed Corn Exchange complex and Parish Church, it has developed through Victorian and Edwardian times through to more modern 20th century estates, all of which are included on the Hidden Gardens map. The event is organised by the Blandford Environmental Trust, which also manages a small woodland in the town centre for the community which will be open on the day. Proceeds from ticket sales go to local charities chosen by the organisers. Those opening their gardens can also raise funds for a charity or organisation of their choice by offering refreshments or plants for sale. Last year 17 gardens were open and £3000 raised for over a dozen different charities. Since the event was first held in 2008, it has raised over £33,000 for charitable causes. There is no inspection, standard, size or style requirement for the gardens which are opened, although environmentally friendly garden planting is welcome and encouraged. They range from courtyard to expansive, with views across the meadows beside the river Stour, from Georgian to contemporary, and from gardens containing modern sculptures to listed ponds. They are usually open to the public between 11am and 5pm on the day, and will be listed on the ticket which allow entry to them all, and can be purchased from May 25th onwards from the Blandford Information Centre in West Street or from the Blandford Town Museum in the Market Place, or at the gardens themselves.