Tuckton Gardens - Image Credit: BCP Council

Tuckton Gardens

Tuckton Gardens

About

Discover Tuckton Gardens on the River Stour. Home to historic tea gardens, boat hire, and the vintage ferry to Mudeford. A tranquil escape in Southbourne.

Tuckton Gardens is a tranquil riverside retreat situated on the banks of the River Stour, marking the boundary between Southbourne and Christchurch. Defined by its weeping willows and river views, the gardens offer a peaceful atmosphere distinct from the busy seafront.

The site is home to the historic Tuckton Tea Gardens, a venue with a heritage dating back to the Edwardian era. In the early 1900s, the area was the centre of a Russian colony and the Free Age Press, which printed the banned works of Leo Tolstoy. Today, the gardens serve as a gateway to the river, offering boat hire, ferry links, and access to the Stour Valley Way walking path.

For families, the gardens provide a link to local history—formerly the site of the Tucktonia model village—and a relaxed environment for riverside walks and leisure.

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Facilities

  • Café: The on-site Tuckton Tea Gardens serves full English breakfasts, lunches, and afternoon teas. Both indoor and outdoor seating are available.
  • Takeaway: 'The Hatch' provides a window service for takeaway coffee, ice creams, and snacks.
  • Boat Hire: Self-drive motorboats are available for hire from Bournemouth Boating (April to October). Boats hold up to six people; no licence is required.
  • Ferry Service: A vintage ferry operates a seasonal service connecting Tuckton to Wick, Christchurch Quay, and Mudeford Sandbank.
  • Play Area: The 'Riverlands' play area is located within the gardens. Equipment includes swings, a multi-play climbing frame, and a seesaw (suitable for toddlers and juniors).
  • Toilets: Public toilet facilities are available on-site (seasonal opening hours apply).
  • Accessibility: The terrain is flat with paved pathways throughout, suitable for wheelchair users and pushchairs.
  • Seating: Public benches and picnic spots are located along the riverbank.

Opening Times

Guide Prices

Road Directions

By Car:

Tuckton Gardens is located off Wick Lane in Southbourne.

  • Sat Nav: BH6 3BN
  • Parking: There is limited on-street parking available on Wick Lane immediately adjacent to the gardens. For longer stays, we recommend using the Warren Edge Car Park (BH6 4BE) near the bottom of Southbourne Coast Road, which is a short, scenic walk away via the riverside path.

Public Transport Directions

By Bus: The gardens are well-served by the Morebus network. Routes 1b, 1c, and 33 all stop at Tuckton Bridge, which is a two-minute walk from the garden entrance.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Christchurch Station (approx. 20-minute walk). Alternatively, take a bus from Bournemouth Station or Pokesdown Station.

By Ferry: During the summer season (April to October), you can access the gardens via the vintage ferry service from Christchurch Quay or Mudeford Sandbank.

Offers

Events

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