Rowcroft Hospice’s much-loved Open Gardens returned this spring and summer, raising an incredible £18,000 to help care for local people living with life-limiting illnesses. Building on the success of previous years, the programme ran from April to September and saw 17 gardens across South Devon open their gates to visitors, bringing the community together to support local end-of-life care.
Sponsored by Majestic Tours, the Open Gardens featured an inspiring mix of gardens of all shapes, sizes, and styles, each with its own unique charm. They showcased the owners’ creativity and hard work, giving visitors a glimpse into the outdoor spaces they have lovingly created.
Showcasing South Devon’s finest gardens
Highlights included Rowcroft’s very own Ella’s Gardens, Heathercombe, the Italian Gardens at Great Ambrook, Oldway Mansion Gardens, Galmpton Village, and Thorn Alpaca Farm, along with many other hidden gems.
The Osborne Hotel in Torquay also opened their gardens in aid of Rowcroft. Carol Chivers, Meetings & Events Manager said: “We thoroughly enjoyed hosting our first Open Garden in aid of Rowcroft earlier this year. It turned out to be a beautiful May day and so the gardens looked radiant in the sunshine while our guests who attended enjoyed some live music along with a drink and a bite to eat on our stunning terrace. We are very much looking forward to hosting again in 2026.”
A heartfelt thank you
Alison Upton, Philanthropy and Engagement Manager at Rowcroft Hospice said:
“What a fantastic year for our Open Gardens! Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s programme such a success. We are incredibly grateful to the gardeners, owners, and visitors who came together in support of Rowcroft. Your generosity has helped raise vital funds that will make a real difference to people in our community.
“We’re now inviting our wonderful, green-fingered friends to take part in Rowcroft’s 2026 Open Gardens programme! Whether your garden is a secret hidden gem or a striking public space, we’d love for you to share it with the community. By opening your garden, you can inspire others while helping to raise vital funds to support local hospice care. We’d be thrilled to have you on board, so please do get in touch to find out more.”
Calling all gardeners for 2026
If you’d like to support Rowcroft Hospice through next year’s Open Gardens programme, please email: fundraising@rowcrofthospice.org.uk or for more information on the hospice’s upcoming events, visit www.rowcrofthospice.org.uk
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