The Islands of Guernsey benefit from a great growing climate. Spring actually arrives four weeks earlier in Guernsey than on mainland Britain, which allows some unique and very beautiful flora to grow on the island.
Whether you’re a budding horticulturist, gardener, or collector of house plants, there are plenty of green spaces to explore and take inspiration from.
During the summer months we have a plethora of open garden events to choose from.
The Hidden Gardens of St Pierre du Bois
The Hidden Gardens of St Pierre du Bois is a charming event with a small village fete feel. With cream teas served in the church, plants on sale and live bonsai shaping and trimming.
With over 20 beautiful private gardens and places of interest to explore throughout the parish on foot or by bike. Take your time to appreciate the serene rural backdrop, wander leisurely and immerse yourself in nature’s embrace.
There are centuries of farming history, which can be seen in the great stone apple presses, pigstys and Guernsey Granite outbuildings. From small cottage gardens to wildflower and orchid meadows, and grand farmhouses with traditional Guernsey greenhouses, there is a real variety on show.
Gardens open: 1st & 2nd June 2024.
The Hidden Gardens event usually takes place in June, as a biannual event, with the next planned for 2026.
National gardening Scheme
The National Garden Scheme (NGS) is working in partnership with the Queen’s Nursing Institute (QNI) to give visitors access to some of the loveliest gardens in the Channel Islands. The NGS works to offer unique access to thousands of usually private gardens across Britain and in doing so raises valuable funding for nursing and health charities through admissions, teas and cakes.
Details for open gardens in 2024:
- Sark - This year we have three gardens in Sark open on the 8th & 9th June; La Tour, Le Grand Dixcart and La Seigneurie
- Guernsey - Saturday 15th June, Longfrie House in St. Peter’s, Guernsey
For more information visit Best 4 Gardens to Visit in Channel Islands in 2024 | NGS Gardens
Floral Guernsey
A wonderful selection of open gardens organised by Floral Guernsey
- Le Douit, St. Saviour- a beautiful secluded property is set in 3.2 acres of grounds, which feature a lake and woodland walk. Open Sunday 9th June.
- Les Fontenelles, Forest - A beautiful cliff top garden of approximately 2 acres. Open Sunday June 16th
- Les Villets Farm, Forest - A lovingly cared for garden, overlooking le Gouffre. Wander through the tree lined paths, enjoying the large variety of plants, and the beautiful plants surrounding the horse paddock. Open Sunday June 30th
Read more: Floral Guernsey - Open Gardens | Visit Guernsey
Bloomin' Alderney
Bloomin’ Alderney Garden Festival returns for a 15th year, with many beautiful gardens around the island open for visitors to enjoy. With 29 gardens to explore.
Explore Alderney and wherever you see a 'Bloomin’ Alderney' sign, take a leisurely stroll through the garden and enjoy the flowers & landscaping. Many gardens also boast spectacular views.
June 2 – 8, 2024 - Opening times will vary so please check the information on the signs. Daily diary updates and special events throughout the week will be displayed at the Visitor Information Centre.
Read more: Bloomin' Alderney 2024 | Visit Alderney, Channel Islands
La Société - Explore 10 wonderful nature reserves
La Société Guernesiaise now owns or leases some 50 separate areas of land, totalling some 320 vergées (130 acres) and owns or manages the majority of the nature reserves on the island. These include the four major reed beds on the island, and some superb orchid fields, which are considered to be some of the best in the British Isles.
The nature reserves are open year round, and offer something different in each season.
La Société Guernesiaise was founded in 1882 to encourage the study of the history, natural history, geography and geology of the Bailiwick of Guernsey, the conservation of the Bailiwick’s natural environment and the preservation of its historic buildings and monuments. In many respects, La Société Guernesiaise is similar to the UK Wildlife Trusts. However, its activities extend into many other areas, including history, archaeology and astronomy.
Read more: Nature Reserves – La Societe Guernesiaise
