17 Acres of Paradise In Annapolis Royal
Nestled along the edge of a tidal river valley in one of Canada's oldest towns, the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens is a place where history, horticulture, and natural beauty come together. Spanning seventeen acres of lovingly tended grounds, the Gardens have been welcoming visitors since 1981 and have grown into one of Nova Scotia's premier attractions — recognized among Canada's top ten gardens worth travelling for.
More than just a beautiful place to walk, the Historic Gardens is a living record of centuries of local heritage. Each garden area reflects a different chapter in the story of this region, from the time before European settlement when the Mi'kmaq people were the land's stewards, to the 17th century Acadian settlers who established new crops, to the innovative gardeners of today. Our reconstructed Acadian House, informed by evidence uncovered through local archaeological excavations, offers a rare and tangible window into the lives of those who came before us.
Our Rose Collection is a beloved centrepiece of the Gardens, featuring hundreds of cultivars and thousands of blooms in an extraordinary range of colours and fragrances. Alongside it, our Innovative Garden showcases contemporary planting methods and materials that inspire visitors to bring new ideas back to their own urban and home gardens.
But the Gardens are more than a destination — they are a community. We are a not-for-profit organization supported by members, donors, volunteers, and visitors who share a love of growing things and a commitment to preserving this special place for generations to come. Whether you come for a quiet morning walk, a family outing, a special event, or simply to sit among the roses, you are always welcome here. We look forward to seeing you!
Forty-Plus Years of Excellence
Since 1981, visitors have been stepping through our gates and leaving with something they didn't expect — a sense of peace, wonder, and a deep connection to this remarkable corner of Nova Scotia.
History You Can Actually Walk Through
These aren't just pretty gardens. They're a living landscape spanning centuries of heritage, where an authentically reconstructed Acadian homestead sits among grounds shaped by the same tidal valley that Mi'kmaq used as a travelway to the interior.
A Rose Collection Like No Other
With hundreds of cultivars and thousands of fragrant blooms, our Rose Collection is one of the finest in Atlantic Canada and a must-see for any lover of flowers. A true feast for the senses!
Seventeen Acres of Surprises
From heritage kitchen gardens to innovative urban planting ideas, from whimsical sculptures to the quiet shade of century-old trees, there's always a corner of the Gardens you haven't discovered yet.
A Place Worth Travelling For
We're proud to be recognized among Canada's top ten gardens worth travelling for — and even prouder of the visitors who tell us they came for an hour and stayed for the whole afternoon.
Rooted in the Community
As a not-for-profit organization, we are sustained by the generosity of our members, donors, and volunteers. Every visit and every contribution helps keep this special place thriving.
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Events & Activities
From seasonal celebrations and family-friendly programming to special garden events throughout the year, there is always something happening at the Historic Gardens. Whether you are planning your first visit or you are a familiar face, our events and activities offer a wonderful reason to come and spend some time with us. We hope to see you soon.
Get Exploring Today!
Discover 17 acres of breathtaking gardens, history, and culture in the heart of Annapolis Royal. From vibrant blooms and historically themed gardens to seasonal events and activities, the Historic Gardens offer an unforgettable experience.
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