/ Hampshire Trip Activities / Steam into a Botanical Adventure
Exbury Gardens offers an immersive outdoor experience that perfectly blends natural beauty with historical discovery. Spread across 200 acres of the New Forest, this world-renowned garden provides a safe and stimulating environment for pupils to explore. Whether they are wandering through hidden woodland paths or marvelling at the vibrant seasonal displays, youngsters are encouraged to connect with nature in a tangible and memorable way.
A major highlight for any visit is the narrow-gauge steam railway, which takes students on a journey through the heart of the gardens. This provides a fantastic entry point for discussing Inventions and Technology and the history of Transport, showing how steam power continues to captivate imaginations today. The thrill of the railway, combined with the scale of the estate, ensures that a visit here is as much about fun and adventure as it is about academic learning.
The site serves as a living laboratory for exploring Animals, Habitats and Biodiversity. From the banks of the Beaulieu River to the ancient oak forests, pupils can investigate diverse ecosystems and learn about the importance of conservation. With its links to World War II and its rich botanical heritage, Exbury Gardens is an ideal choice for a school residential stay, offering endless opportunities for youngsters to discover the wonders of the natural world.
Here's some of the most frequently-asked questions about school visits to Exbury Gardens, posed by teachers and other group leaders
There are toilets at the entrance and at the railway station
The assembly point for the gardens is the main car park. If pupils are on the railway, the driver will provide specific instructions to disembark safely and move to a clear, open grassed area.
First aid assistance is available at the main visitor entrance and the railway station.
There is a designated space for picnics. This is not bookable.
The steam railway runs on a specific timetable; group leaders should book their slot in advance to avoid disappointment. Pupils must stay on the paths and avoid climbing on any rare specimen trees. The railway carriages are open sided.
There is a café on site
