Monty Don Bids Emotional Farewell to Gardeners' World After 23 Years
Horticulturalist Monty Don hosted his final episode of the beloved BBC programme from his Longmeadow home, bringing an end to more than two decades at the helm.
Published 8 November 2026
An Emotional Sign-Off at Longmeadow
Viewers across the nation tuned in for a bittersweet television event on Friday night as horticulturalist Monty Don presented his final episode of Gardeners' World. The 71-year-old broadcaster delivered his last-ever outing from the familiar surroundings of his garden at Longmeadow, marking the conclusion of an era that spanned more than two decades. As the credits rolled, audiences were left in tears by his heartfelt farewell message.
Reflecting on his remarkable tenure, Monty expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to share his passion with millions of households each week. Standing alongside his dog Ned, he described the experience as an incredible privilege. Long-term fans quickly flooded social media platforms like X to share their sorrow, noting that Friday evenings would simply never feel the same without the soothing presence of the presenter and his canine companions.
Two Decades of Growing with the Nation
Monty first stepped into the role of presenter back in 2003, beginning his journey at Berryfields before eventually moving production to his private property at Longmeadow in 2011. Over the course of 23 years at the helm of the BBC programme, viewers watched as the garden evolved alongside the host. The show also chronicled the lives of his beloved dogs over the years, including Nigel, Nellie, and Patty.
Throughout his tenure, the veteran gardener became a comforting fixture on television screens, offering advice that emphasized patience and mindfulness over rigid perfectionism. Many devoted followers noted that his calm demeanor and practical guidance served as an essential source of solace, particularly during stressful global events such as the Covid-19 pandemic.
Announcing the Departure
The host first announced his impending departure in September, later confirming the exact airdate via a video shared on Instagram alongside his dog Ned. Speaking from his property in Herefordshire, he explained that now felt like the right time for a change. Although he previously considered continuing his contract further into the future, he ultimately decided that his lengthy run must eventually come to an end.
Despite stepping away from the weekly series, Monty reassured fans that he is not disappearing from television entirely. He confirmed plans to appear in upcoming winter specials scheduled to air before Christmas, and he is also set to join the presenting line-up for the Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show.
Behind the Scenes at Longmeadow
The transition away from the BBC programme also brings practical changes to the maintenance of Monty's famous two-acre garden, which he and his wife Sarah created from a neglected field beginning in 1991. Over the years, the space grew to encompass distinct areas including a cottage garden, a jewel garden, an Islamic-inspired paradise garden, and a productive vegetable patch.
Because the BBC historically contributed toward the salaries of two full-time gardeners to keep the estate in filming condition, Monty noted that this financial support will now cease. Alongside a propagation expert and a landscaper, his dedicated team of staff has worked with him for a decade, prompting the host to explore new ways to sustain the upkeep of the property.
Legacy and Future Endeavors
As one chapter closes, the broadcaster is already looking ahead to new creative projects. While ruling out opening his private property to the public due to local parking limitations, he intends to focus on writing additional books and developing other television programmes.
His departure marks the conclusion of a defining chapter in British horticultural broadcasting. By teaching a generation of viewers to appreciate the small moments in nature, Monty Don leaves behind a lasting legacy defined by warmth, education, and an enduring love for the soil.
News Overview
Monty Don hosted his final episode of Gardeners' World on Friday night after 23 years with the BBC programme. The emotional broadcast from his Longmeadow home prompted an outpouring of sadness from viewers on social media. Although he is stepping down from the weekly series, the horticulturalist will still appear in upcoming winter specials and at the Chelsea Flower Show.
Key facts
- Monty Don is 71 years old.
- He announced he was stepping down from Gardeners' World in September.
- His final episode aired on Friday, 6 November 2026.
- He first began presenting the show 23 years ago in 2003.
- Filming at his Longmeadow home began 16 years ago in 2011.
- He will appear in two winter specials and the 2027 RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
- He and his wife Sarah created the Longmeadow garden in 1991.