Fast Rabbit Farm Gardens
Fast Rabbit Farm Gardens occupy 30 acres of the secluded Strawberry Valley.
Nurtured since 1991, it is probably the largest garden featuring acid-loving plants in the county.
Fast Rabbit Farm displays a flavour of their gardens with each season and presents an impression of the range of habitats which are home to a vast family of plants, birds and other creatures. You will certainly be stunned by the vivid blooms and also soothed by the ever-present sound of water as it splashes, trickles and cascades through the valley.
The garden enjoys a secluded location and is accessed by a country lane. Direct access is available but not for vehicles larger than a minibus or a small coach, however we are still able to cater for parties of up to 60.
The garden covers a large area and we recommend a stay of several hours.
Please contact us to discuss your needs and preferred visiting times by ringing Alan on 07813 504490.
Fast Rabbit Farm Garden welcomes disabled and elderly visitors and seeks to enable a good experience for those with limited mobility or other needs. We have a separate drop-off point for easier access to the strawberry valley area (see map) and a gentle slope leads along the River Black to the Rose arbour and Kingfisher Lake. To discuss your particular needs please call Alan on 07813 504490 and we will make sure you have an enjoyable visit.
Wildlife Walks
You can walk the garden in the company of local naturalist, Peter Shaw. Peter leads a small group at 10.30am, on one Sunday each month, starting in May. Click here for more information
You can book in advance by calling Alan on 07813 504490 or just be at the visitor centre at 10.25 am. Tours cost £10 inclusive of entry.
Plant Centre
Visit our Plant Centre as part of your trip to the garden or separately. No admission charge. Our prices are low with discount for multiple purchases We have a vast selection of home-grown plants, many of which feature in the garden. There is usually someone in the centre between 11 and 3 pm. You are welcome to browse there in garden opening hours.
There is an outside area and a large poly-tunnel so you can browse at your leisure from our wide range of modestly priced plants and shrubs.
We have tended to specialise in acid-loving plants including gorgeously coloured rhododendrons, camellias, magnolias and azaleas as well as clematis, roses, climbers, large and small shrubs and herbaceous varieties.
We also stock some of the exotic species, which thrive in this sheltered valley. Our staff are happy to advise you on plant care and appropriate choices for your own garden.
History of Fast Rabbit Garden
The Original garden of 12 acres was started in 1991 in the sheltered Strawberry Valley which includes the higher reaches of the River Black on its way to the sea at Blackpool Sands. Close to the coast the climate is mild and there is protection from the salt-laden winds.
Although close to Dartmouth, the garden is very secluded and tranquil. Working with the natural features of the land, paths were created and many trees planted to enhance the wind barriers. A rock garden using 100 tons of local alluvial boulders was created near the head of the valley. The river was dammed to create a large lake and a series of ponds, linked by waterfalls added to the features. As the garden has matured all these alterations have attracted new species of wildflowers and given sanctuary to bird and insect life. The lake was stocked with golden orfe, koi and mirror carp but is also now home to dragonfies and visited by kingfishers and even cormorants.
Read more about Fast Rabbit Farm in By The Dart here
