Gardens and hospice care
At St Margaret’s, gardens are more than green spaces – they are living sanctuaries. Our hospice gardens in Taunton and Yeovil are welcoming, calming, and accessible places where patients and their loved ones can spend precious moments together.
Our Head Gardener, Caroline says:
Having worked at the Taunton hospice for six years, I have heard so many stories of how the garden contributes to supporting our patients and their loved ones. For some patients, it’s as simple as seeing the birds or squirrels out of their window, others have enjoyed picking flowers, growing tomatoes, deadheading the summer flowers or enjoying the outdoor space with visitors."
Out in the community, we support people to remain independent at home for as long as possible. For many, their gardens are a source of pride and solace. When illness makes it difficult to keep up with maintenance, our teams help patients apply for attendance allowances and other support so they can continue to enjoy tidy, beautiful gardens – spaces that nourish wellbeing even during challenging times.
Glorious Gardens reflects this – giving our whole community the chance to get out in nature and feel the nourishing, calming power of greenery and wildlife. We are so grateful to our supporters for opening their gardens to support St Margaret’s.
Volunteer
We need some helping hands to join us at some of our garden openings to ensure visitors are directed where they need to go, refreshments are served, and everyone has a lovely time. Could you give a few hours out in nature?
Additional Information
When visiting our Glorious Gardens, please remember…
- Take care when exploring the gardens, especially near ponds and water features, and on steps and slopes
- Entry for children is free although any donation is welcomed
- Children must be supervised at all times, and dogs must be kept on leads (where they are permitted – please check individual garden listings)
- Keep to marked paths
- Parking is at your own risk
- Bring cash with you, as most gardens cannot take card payments (children under 16 go free to all gardens).
FAQs
Most gardens do not require advance booking – simply turn up on the day. Some locations may require appointments, so check individual listings before visiting.
We recommend bringing cash, as many gardens cannot accept card payments.
Many gardens offer tea, coffee, cake, or light refreshments, and some even have plant sales or picnicking areas.
Some gardens provide toilets – please check individual listings in advance.
Parking is available at many locations, but may be limited. Please check individual listings. Parking is at your own risk.
Accessibility varies by garden. Some are suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs, while others may have steps, slopes or uneven terrain.
Yes – children under 16 can attend for free, but must be supervised at all times, especially near ponds and uneven ground.
Dogs are welcome at some gardens but must be kept on leads. Please check individual garden listings.
Yes! Glorious Gardens welcomes gardens of all sizes. You can register interest for 2027 by contacting the hospice team at [email protected]
Absolutely – volunteers play a vital role in supporting events and hospice care. Flexible opportunities are available.
Glorious Gardens 2026 is proudly sponsored by Greenslade Taylor Hunt
