Hospiscare’s Open Gardens shows off Devon’s hidden treasures

This year will once again see Hospiscare teaming up with local residents who are gladly opening their gardens in support of what is now a favourite staple in the charity’s calendar. This year, Hospiscare Open Gardens is entering its fifteenth year and to date has raised the awe inspiring amount of £227,000. This is thanks to the gardeners who work tirelessly caring for their outdoor spaces, the visitors who turn out in force to marvel at these treasured lands and the friends, family and volunteers who come together to make it all possible.

2018 was a record breaking year for the Open Gardens campaign, raising nearly £30,000, which isn’t surprising when there were so many exciting spaces to explore across Exeter, Mid and East Devon. This year sees the return of many beautiful gardens, as well as new gardeners who have come forward to open the garden gate to a captivated crowd.

Last year Hospiscare was also fortunate to have the support of Anne Swithinbank, trained horticulturalist and popular gardening broadcaster, who gave a fascinating talk to the visitors of Holcombe Court. The event took place in the stunning gardens of this Grade I listed property in Wellington. Anne’s expertise and the magnificent setting left visitors truly inspired.

“It was a delight to have a tour of Holcombe Rogus with the owner, to enjoy a very tasty lunch and to wander in fascinating gardens.”

This year, Hospiscare are thrilled to have the support of television and radio broadcaster Judi Spiers. Judi will be paying a visit to a number of the gardens and has also written an entertaining foreword for the Open Gardens booklet (available from Hospiscare shops and other retail outlets).

A huge part of the appeal of Open Gardens lies in the variation that can be found from one garden to the next, allowing visitors with varying tastes to find something they love and can potentially aspire to. So, from the grandeur of Holcombe Court to the smaller but equally well cared for urban gardens on display, Hospiscare Open Gardens lets keen gardeners show off their wares and visitors enjoy a memorable day meandering these precious plots - typically accompanied by a very welcome cup of tea and slice of cake.

To find out more about this year’s open gardens and how to visit, click here to take a look at the brochure.

If you would like to open your garden, please contact Hospiscare on 01392 688020 and ask for Susie, who has managed the campaign for five years, and would be extremely happy to hear from you. Alternatively, you can email fundraising@hospiscare.co.uk.

Hospiscare is a local adult hospice charity, providing high quality care and support to people with any type of terminal illness, and those close to them, in Exeter, Mid and East Devon. A gift to Hospiscare in your Will helps ensure the future of the charity in Devon for generations to come.