Some really gorgeous "F" and "G" Gardens

Today, I've got some really special gardens for you on my alphabet tour! From Forde Abbey in Dorset to Greenbank Garden in Scotland - they are all favourites of mine - and places that I return to whenever I am in the area.

Forde, a former Cistercian abbey (above), started in the 12th century, has wonderful grounds extending to more than 30 acres, complete with lime and walnut avenues, a large lake and a backdrop of stately buildings; plus impressive bog and walled kitchen gardens. There is something enchanting about this place, dotted with statues and sculptures, and you'll enjoy a remarkable sense of peace when you're walking around. Open year round, and really spectacular in February with its displays of crocuses and daffodils.

The Garden House, which I reviewed earlier this year, is another great favourite of mine and is home to a ruined abbey, which makes a wonderful backdrop to the gardens. The creation of a retired schoolmaster - Lionel Fortescue - it is a plantsman's paradise - filled to bursting with interesting plants and divided into a series of large garden "rooms" featuring South African, meadow, bulb and magnificent tree collections. There is always something to see here and the only sadness is that it has become so popular that it can be hugely crowded.

I'm being a little unfair including the next garden - Glen Chantry - because it's no longer open to the public. The owners closed their doors last summer after 30 years of receiving visitors, although I understand they will continue to open for charity in 2010. So check the web if you plan to visit and see if they plan to open - you won't be disappointed. Planting here is magnificent; the borders will stop you in your tracks; and then there are the stunning little touches like this lady, made out of chicken wire!

Great Dixter (above) seems to be on everybody's wish list, which is hardly surprising because it is an iconic landscape with its staggering floral displays and ancient timber-framed house as a backdrop. Former home of Christopher Lloyd, this is a garden with a difference! It's stunning and well worth going out of your way for.

Gorgeous Greenbank Garden (above) may be a little out of the way, but could form the basis of a Scottish garden tour because there are so many other lovely gardens nearby. This stunning 2.5-acre walled garden is divided into many sections and demonstrates design and planting ideas for small gardens. You will see many interesting plant combinations and colours here.

And finally, Groombridge Place in Kent (above). An interesting restored 17th century garden with its "drunken" juniper trees, handsomely moated manor house (not open to the public), and newer features like the giant chessboard, the Golden Key Maze and a charming knot garden. There is also an enchanted forest for children. The setting of the property is quite spectacular in a broad wooded valley, and it is very peaceful here.