The gardens are framed by the abbey wall that runs from the ancient Abbot's Bridge via the imposing Abbey Gate to St Edmundsbury Cathedral. They contain magnificent formal gardens, the largest of which consists of a great circle filled with flower beds set in well-kept lawns; there are also the more secluded areas,such as the Old English Rose Garden, the Water Garden and the Blind Garden, where scent is everything.

The ducks and geese make their homes down by the River Lark and are great favourites with the younger children, whilst the modern safe children's play equipment will keep the older ones occupied. Tennis courts can be hired, and for the more leisurely there are putting and bowls greens with equipment hire from the gift shop. The tearoom provides drinks and snacks, and on warm summer days it is particularly pleasant to sit outside in the fenced tearoom garden.

The Abbey Gardens are open Mon-Sat 7.30am - ½ hour before dusk, Sun and Bank Holidays 9am - ½ hour before dusk. Admission free. Tel 0284 757088 or 757490. The tearoom is closed in winter.