Bennetts Water Gardens in Dorset is a hidden gem for nature lovers and garden enthusiast. This is an award-winning attraction which is home to eight acres of naturalistic gardens. Bennetts Water Gardens is a must-visit destination in Dorset.
Getting To Bennetts Water Gardens
If you’re driving, the address for Bennetts Water Gardens is Putton Lane, Chickerell, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 4AF.
There are handy brown tourist information signs if you’re driving from the Weymouth direction. The gardens are located just two miles away from Weymouth harbour on the B3157.
You will find FREE parking at the water gardens, however the car park is quite small, so it’s recommended to arrive earlier in the day if possible.
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History Of Bennetts Water Gardens
Bennetts Water Gardens covers eight acres of naturalistic gardens. The gardens are open seasonally between April and September, during which you can discover a stunning collection of water lilies.
The site was once a clay pit until the founder Norman Bennett planted a collection of water lilies in the 1950’s.
What started as a pond plant business has turned into something unique and amazing in the heart of Dorset. Today the National Plant Collection of Water Lilies can be found at Bennetts Water Gardens. These alongside beautiful landscaping and facilities makes for a great day out in Dorset.
Things To Do At Bennetts Water Gardens
When visiting Bennetts Water Gardens, aside from the beautiful display of water lilies, one of the additional attractions is the Monet-style Japanese bridge. This was unveiled and opened in 1999 to commemorate 100 years of Claude Monet’s painting “water lily pond”.
On sunny days, when the lilies are in flower, this makes for a stunning photo. Perfectly placed seating makes this a peaceful spot to sit and enjoy the view too when visiting the gardens.
Did you know there are over 340 varieties of lilies at Bennetts Water Gardens which span across eight ponds.
On arrival at these Dorset gardens, you are given a handy map to follow. The paths are quite self explanatory however, and you can wander for as long as you like during your visit.
I would recommend around two hours to wander before perhaps enjoying a drink or refreshments in the on site cafe.
The best time to visit Bennetts Water Gardens is between June and September when the lilies are in full bloom.
As well as the the lilies and Monet style bridge, you will also find the Tropical House which houses tropical plants and cactus.
Near the end of the garden trail, there’s also a very fascinating museum which tells the story of around 150 years of local history. You can see the gardens in differing stages through the years, as well as some other local history of Chickerell and Weymouth in Dorset.
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Bennetts Water Gardens Facilities
Before visiting Bennetts Water Gardens, it’s handy to know that only registered assistance dogs are permitted to the gardens.
The paths around the ponds are mainly accessible, however during wet weather the paths can become boggy making them unsuitable for wheelchair users.
You will find Cafe Monet at the entrance (or exit) to the gardens. You can visit without a garden entry ticket.
Toilets are also available at the entrance to the garden, and there is a small gift shop area just inside the reception area.