Bicton Park Botanical Gardens Budleigh Salterton

So, there I was, wandering around Budleigh Salterton, when I stumbled upon a hidden gem that made me question why I hadn't visited sooner. I mean, who knew that tucked away in this charming seaside town was a botanical garden that's like a big, green hug from Mother Nature herself? I'm talking about Bicton Park Botanical Gardens, folks.

Bicton Park Botanical Gardens: A Secret No More

Now, I've been around the block a few times, and I've seen my fair share of gardens. But Bicton Park, it's something else. It's like they've taken a slice of the Amazon rainforest, a chunk of the Mediterranean, and a dash of the English countryside, and said, "Let's throw them all in a blender and see what happens." And you know what? It works.

I mean, where else can you find yourself in the middle of a palm house, sweating like you're on a tropical holiday, and then wander out into the English Woodland Garden, where it's cool and damp, and you could be forgiven for thinking you're in the heart of Sherwood Forest? It's like they've got some sort of magical climate control going on.

Palms, Pines, and a Whole Lot of History

Bicton Park has been around since the 18th century, you know. It was the brainchild of Sir Thomas Dyke Acland, who decided he wanted a bit of the exotic in his backyard. So, he went ahead and planted all sorts of weird and wonderful plants from around the globe. And here we are, over 200 years later, still enjoying the fruits of his labor.

I mean, have you ever seen a tree fern that's taller than your house? Because I have, at Bicton Park. And it's a bit of a mind-blowing experience, I'm not gonna lie. It's like being a hobbit in Middle-earth, or something.

More Than Just Plants

But Bicton Park isn't just about the plants, oh no. They've got a whole menagerie of animals too. I mean, who expects to see alpacas and meerkats when they're out for a stroll in the gardens? But there they were, munching on hay and showing off their cute little faces.

And the kids? Well, they're not left out either. There's a whole adventure playground, a maze, and even a mini golf course. I mean, I'm an adult, and I was tempted to have a go on the mini golf. But then I remembered I had some dignity to uphold. Somewhere.

So, What's the Verdict?

Bicton Park Botanical Gardens, my friends, is a treasure trove of nature, history, and fun. It's the perfect place to spend a day, whether you're a plant enthusiast, an animal lover, or just someone who likes a good walk in the great outdoors. And the best part? It's right here in Budleigh Salterton, waiting for you to discover it.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your walking shoes on, pack a picnic (because the food in the cafe is pretty darn good too), and head on down to Bicton Park. I promise, you won't be disappointed. And who knows? You might even see me there, wandering around like a kid in a candy store, trying to decide which plant is my favorite. (Spoiler alert: it's the giant tree fern. Always the tree fern.)