Excursion Abbotsbury swannery & gardens tour at Portland (GB)

Marvel at the exquisite and unique flora and fauna of the Abbotsbury Swannery and Subtropical Gardens during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Portland, Portland Bill, Southernmost Point of Dorset, Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive to the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens. En route, take in panoramic views of Portland Bill (weather-permitting), the southernmost point of Dorset, famous for its quarrying of Portland stone and rugged coastline. Established in 1765 by the first Countess of Ilchester as a kitchen garden for her nearby castle, Abbotsbury Gardens has evolved into a magnificent, approximately 20-acre (about eight-hectare) garden filled with rare and exotic plants from all over the world. Many of these plants were first introductions to this country, discovered by the plant-hunting descendants of the Countess.

Formal and Informal Gardens, Rare and Exotic Plants, Guided or Self-Guided Visit, Garden Café

After the great storm of 1990, many new exotic and unusual plants were introduced to Abbotsbury Gardens during its renovation, and it is now a mixture of formal and informal, charming walled garden walks and spectacular woodland valley views. World-famous for its camellia groves and magnolias, Abbotsbury Gardens is also noted for its superb rhododendron and hydrangea collections. Upon arrival, you can tour the gardens with the guide or explore them at your leisure. Should you feel hungry, homemade produce and refreshments are available at the Garden Café at your own expense. Following your visit, re-board your coach and continue on to the nearby Abbotsbury Swannery.

Abbotsbury Swannery, Colony of Swans, Cygnet-Feeding

The unique Abbotsbury Swannery is the only place in the world where you can walk through the heart of a colony of nesting mute swans. The Abbotsbury Swannery was established by Benedictine Monks, who built the Abbotsbury Monastery during the 1040s. The monks farmed the swans to produce food for their lavish banquets. St. Peter's Monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution; some of the ruins are still visible around St. Nicholas' Church in the village. From mid-May to late-June, hundreds of fluffy cygnets hatch from eggs in nests on or near the pathways. Feeding time is between 2 p.m.-4 p.m., and guests are invited to participate. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back through the hills and back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Portland, Portland Bill, Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, Formal & Informal Gardens, Rare & Exotic Plants, Abbotsbury Swannery, Colony of Swans, Cygnet-Feeding

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for up to 1.24 miles (about two kilometres), at times over uneven surfaces and slight inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and up to five steps at the entrance to the gift shops. Walking at the Abbotsbury Swannery and Gardens is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with a fear of birds, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, an umbrella, weatherproof jacket or coat, and credit cards or local currency for purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate on this tour; minors under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. The tour sequence may vary.