North Devon Hospice are inviting the whole community to explore their stunning five-acre grounds next month, with a free Open Garden event which offers something for everyone. From 11am until 4pm on Sunday 7th June, visitors are invited to explore one of North Devon's most lovingly tended green spaces, as well as enjoy a barbecue, cream tea, plant sale, kids trail and much more.
Whether you're looking for a fantastic family day out, or are keen to visit North Devon Hospice for the very first time, this is a chance to discover one of the area’s real hidden gems. Visitors can browse the extensive plant and garden sale, enjoy tasty homecooked food on the beautiful decking over-looking the gardens, or just enjoy exploring every treasure the grounds have to offer.
The gardens themselves are regularly described as a ‘haven’ or ‘sanctuary’ by families who are being supported at the hospice. Now the whole community can discover this little slice of tranquillity, which is nestled away so close to Barnstaple town centre.
Cared for year-round by a dedicated team of volunteer gardeners, North Devon Hospice’s grounds are a place of real beauty. There are fragrant flowerbeds, vibrant ponds, a cherry orchard, kitchen garden, children’s play area and much more. As Mick Bennet, one of the volunteer gardeners, puts it:
"The hospice gardens are a place where people can slow down and connect with nature. From the colour and scent of the flowerbeds to the sound of the stream and children enjoying the outdoor space. Every corner has been carefully tended to offer something special. Opening our garden to the community is something we look forward to every year. It's wonderful to see so many people enjoying the space we care for, and we hope lots of people will come and join us on Sunday 7th June."
But these gardens aren't just beautiful. They're genuinely life-changing. For patients being supported by North Devon Hospice, the gardens are such a source of comfort. They are host to so many of the supportive sessions offered by the charity, while every room on the hospice’s Bedded Unit looks out onto the gardens with their own private balcony. This is a space for quiet reflection, gentle walks, and precious moments. Kerry Milton, senior staff nurse on the Bedded Unit, sees it every day:
“The gardens are a beautiful place for patients and family members to have a peaceful moment, together or alone. They offer time to breathe and reflect. They bring patients joy even from their rooms, and many love to watch the wildlife attracted to our gardens. It’s such a pleasure to share this with our whole community, and we hope that local people will come and enjoy what I think is one of the best-kept secrets in North Devon."
Entry to North Devon Hospice’s Open Garden event is completely free. Children are most welcome, as are dogs on leads. Food will be available throughout the day, as well as a free Children’s Trail and Q&A sessions with the hospice’s Head Gardener. All paths are wheelchair accessible.
Sunday 7th June 2026 | 11am–4pm | Free entry | Free parking | Deer Park, Newport, Barnstaple, EX32 0HU
For more information, visit our website
