The Gardens

With a wealth of exotic and exciting plants, Torre Abbey Gardens, nestles behind the main building of the Abbey.

Here you can walk through the ruins of the original church, discover 12th century architecture and tombs and contemplate life as a medieval monk . Or be enthralled by the rare and often strange shrubs and plants that we are able to grow in our mild English Riviera climate.

In Summer massed dahlia borders take centre stage along with the many herbaceous perennials, roses and herbs that make English gardens rightfully famous and delight the senses.

All year round you can enjoy The Palm House, containing tropical plants and palms from around the world, and the fascinating Cactus Collection . Noteworthy recent additions to the heated Palm House include some rare and endangered palms from Kew’s collection and plumerias and gingers for their flamboyant, perfumed flowers.

Agatha Christie's Potent Plant
The Queen of Crime was born in Torquay and later spent her summers at nearby Greenway. Many of her books have strong local references but it is her keen interest in plants and their medicinal powers that are celebrated in this garden feature at Torre Abbey. The Agatha Christie Potent Plants display offers an in intriguing insight into her murder-mysteries and the murky world of poison and treachery.