Fast Rabbit Farm Gardens

The day was one of the hottest of the year so far but my mum (78 yrs) had been wanting to go for several years . My husband and I with our teenage daughter had a day off work and decided to take her. We were greeted by Alan who took us to the start of walk and gave us a well designed map . We thoroughly enjoyed walking around the ponds and the lake and seeing all the beautiful butterflies and huge dragonflies. There were plenty of shaded areas and luckily a lovely breeze to cool us down. A highlight for us was seeing so many little frogs and toads in the grass whilst walking near the lake -so cute ! The water Lilly's were looking great too and this is where we had our picnic. On the return we looked in the poly tunnel nursery at all the so reasonably priced plants and flowers and Alan was so friendly and helpful with all our questions . There was even free tea and coffee for the taking. The toilets were very clean in the portacabin near the car park and even had hand lotion -a nice touch ! All in all we had a very pleasant family outing and will be recommending this place to other friends and family .

AnitaC

If you want a NT garden with beautiful planting, box hedges etc etc then it's not for you. The owner is a Rhododendron lover and expert and he has created a superb wild life garden, with open meadows, lovely tree lined walks through the wooded area that is teaming with wildlife, butterflies, birds etc and a quietness devoid of man made sounds. It's divine. In its season it will have wondrous Rhodi' blooms. Roses in bloom and wild meadow flowers, out of its main colour season it is a garden of quiet reflection of English countryside and planted in areas with the owner's wishes. He is serious ,but proud , about his mission with this garden and expresses his vision clearly. The plants on sale are numerous, varied and well priced. The narrow lane to the garden should not put you off, but be aware of the non flat nature of the garden and the occasional insect attack, but it's wonderful for a plantsperson to visit

RoyW

This is a really enchanting peaceful and relaxed garden. It has beautiful ponds full of waterlillies, blue dragon flies and fish. The landscaped gardens have lots of large blossoms and amazing dramatic foliage in Scrubbs and trees. Curvy grass paths leading allover the gardens. Lots of nice rustic wooden seating places to sit allover the gardens. Shady woodland area and an open terraced section. The nursery is also great with lotd of unusual healthy plants at very reasonable prices grown in house. (no entry cost if you are just visiting the nursery). The staff are really friendly and helpful. It's dog friendly (just keep your dog on a lead.)

RC

The owner has created an extraordinary series of gardens along and above the River Black. We went in May and the rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias and camellias were in full flower. The newer area on the hillsides above the river are still reach maturity, but the older walks through huge blossom covered shrubs alongside the river and lakes are quite lovely, and very peaceful. Plenty of quiet benches to eat a picnic and listen to birdsong. Wear trainers or flat shoes. Healthy not expensive plants for sale in the poly tunnel, and with luck, a chance to talk to the owner about his amazing creation.

JanieD

Enjoy a peaceful walk around this lovely garden and woodland the flowers this May are beautiful and the bluebells in the wood It's a bit hilly as the path winds down to a pond where you might see a heron or two and buzzards soaring above We had a picnic by the pond and followed the path which leads to the woodland - on a lovely day you wouldn't ask for more Afterwards you can purchase some very reasonably priced plants which all look well cared for

Nettle.

I have never been anywhere like Fast Rabbit Farm before - its a unique massive garden with a huge range of plants and trees Mediterranean in part then woody in others. Up and down but good paths and fantastic views.Had a lovely time exploring and we could take our dogs ( need to be on leads) who loved it too - well worth a visit we'll be back again - nursery was brimming with unusual and very healthy looking plants too

DawnC

Had a lovely day here on the 23rd June. A clothing optional day with the emphasis on optional. The plant centre was selling healthy vigorous plants cheaply. Do not expect an intensely cultivated garden it is 43 acres of woodland and valley sides with ponds and lakes teeming with wildlife. The staff and other visitors are very friendly. Do visit!

PaulW

Thank you so much for the time you gave us today to make our trip so enjoyable. I inevitably weakened and am trying again to raise rhododendron King George,purchased from you,as well as the seeds.

WendyB

What a lovely peaceful place to visit full of wild life and a great place for a picnic not to mention the excellent plants you can purchase.

IanA