Monty Don's Longmeadow garden, the beloved setting of BBC Gardeners' World, is located near the market town of Leominster in Herefordshire. The gardening expert purchased the two-acre plot in 1991 when it was a barren field. With limited funds but ample time, he spent the following spring and summer rough-cutting grass and clearing rubbish, all while planning, dreaming, and drawing. Today, Longmeadow is a beautifully designed, wildlife-friendly haven with seasonal planting, lush borders, and thoughtful plots.
Leominster: A Quaint Market Town
Leominster, situated in northern Herefordshire near the Welsh border, is the town Monty Don calls home. In an interview with English Home, he explained his choice: “I live near a little town called Leominster in Herefordshire near the Welsh border.” He added that the location was “sufficiently far” from any London commuter belt, making it more affordable. According to Rightmove, the average house price in Leominster over the last year is £237,089.
Monty Don's Home and Garden
Don described his home as a Tudor oak-beamed hall house with 10 workrooms and studios. While photos of his house remain fairly private, the garden has been featured extensively on television. The garden is split into four sections: the Cottage Garden, Jewel Garden, Paradise Garden, and Vegetable Garden. On his blog, Don wrote: “The planting began in earnest in spring '93 and has never really ceased since. The changes have been dramatic and may seem astonishing to some. But in my mind that early field with its pattern of woven fences protecting the little plants, so small yet filled with dreams, still remains beneath the skin, is still there beneath all the years.”
Exploring Leominster and Beyond
Leominster and its surrounding villages make a perfect base for exploring both England and Wales. The town is a popular tourist destination with historic sites, quaint streets, and wonderful gardens. It is said to have been established around the great Anglo-Saxon abbey founded in 660 AD. Located just 10 minutes from Hereford town centre, which is packed with shops, restaurants, and bars, Leominster offers easy access to amenities. Viewers can often see the different areas of Don's garden on Gardeners' World, including what plants and vegetables he grows.
