Monty Don Bids Farewell to Longmeadow After Decades Hosting Gardeners World

Monty Don presented his final episode of the BBC series Gardeners World on Friday, ending a tenure that spanned more than two decades at his private garden in Longmeadow.

The 71-year-old broadcaster, who first joined the program in 2003, signed off from the Herefordshire garden alongside his golden retriever, Ned, as the show concluded its current season.

Don’s departure marks the conclusion of a significant chapter for the show, which he helped transform into a meditative, poetic exploration of nature and mental well-being.

“From myself, Ned, and Longmeadow it’s the final goodbye,” Don said during the broadcast.

He added: “There has been one constant factor and that has been the incredible privilege and pleasure of sharing my garden and my gardening life with you here.”

The presenter announced in September that he intended to step down, explaining that he reached the decision during the summer after realizing he needed a change.

In an interview with Gardeners World Magazine, Don noted that the production demands required constant attention, stating, “I just knew.”

Don replaced Alan Titchmarsh as the lead presenter in 2003 and took a three-year hiatus after suffering a minor stroke in 2008.

His tenure was marked by his candid discussions regarding his struggles with depression and his advocacy for the therapeutic benefits of gardening.

Following the broadcast, fans and colleagues shared tributes on social media, with broadcaster Jo Whiley thanking Don for his “endless kindness” over the years.

While Don is leaving the series, the BBC confirmed he will continue to work on other projects, including two winter specials and the Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show.

The BBC has not yet named a successor, though industry reports and bookmakers have suggested co-presenters such as Frances Tophill and Adam Frost as potential candidates.