Devon’s RHS Rosemoor, 11 miles from Wheatland Farm, usually has as winter sculpture exhibition, running until the end of January.
It’s a lovely day out for families, couples looking to relax, or anyone needing a bit of inspiration in a beautiful place. We went looking for more outdoor facility ideas for near the eco lodges – and now have several plans.
Here are some of the snaps we took in December 2019. We had elderly relatives visiting Wheatland Farm, and it was a good venue for them, just as it used to be when the children were really young – lovely outside space that’s relatively easy to get around, whether you’re pushing a child’s buggy, taking it easy with a stick, or even renting out one of the trampers Countryside Mobility has at this RHS Garden.
If it’s outside of winter, and you’re hankering for sculpture, Broomhill Sculpture Gardens near Barnstaple makes another Devon day out (not so accessible though), or try Stone Lane sculpture gardens on the Northern side of Dartmoor.
Had enough sculpture? Try these additions to your day out:
- Devon’s hill top town of Torrington, with its Arts Centre, our favourite bakery, and lovely views out over the valley, easily accessed from the benches and walkways at the top of the old Pannier Market…)
- A bike ride on Devon’s Tarka Trail, starting at the Puffing Billy outside Torrington and heading south towards East Yarde, Petrocstowe or Meeth Quarry, or North towards Bideford, Instow, Fremington and Barnstaple (you can hire bikes at shop near the Puffing Billy)
- Or return to Wheatland Farm via Hatherleigh, and try our favourite cafe, One Market Street for a coffee and brownie.
Getting to Rosemoor From Wheatland Farm
We drove (11 miles) because of mobility issues. But RHS Rosemoor is also accessible by bus from Wheatland Farm eco lodges – so long as you are active enough to do the 1.5 miles to the bus stop (maybe borrow a farm bike). The bus stops at Rosemoor on it’s way on to Torrington.
Or you could bike it. It’s only 11 miles away by the main road. But that does mean taking on a busy, sometimes hilly road, and the alternative back route to Torrington, though fun, is further and a lot steeper!
Access Notes for Visiting Rosemoor From Wheatland Farm
As mentioned, Rosemoor is good for groups with various abilities. Much of the gardens are accessible to wheelchair users.. There are also trampers to hire for a small charge (£2.50 in winter 2019).
There are kids’ play areas, cafes for keeping warm in, and loads of benches to act as resting places around the gardens. If you are caring for someone who needs your support in order to visit, entrance is free for you. We were offered a reduced entrance price immediately – didn’t have to ask. Guide/assistance dogs only.