Monty Don will host his final episode of Gardeners’ World this Friday, 6 November, ending a 23-year tenure on the BBC gardening programme. The 71-year-old presenter confirmed the date via social media, stating that his departure follows a decision made earlier this year to step down at the conclusion of the current series.
Don films final episode at Longmeadow
The upcoming episode will air at 8pm on BBC Two and will be filmed at Don’s own garden, Longmeadow, in Herefordshire. While the programme originally began at a rented garden in Stratford-upon-Avon known as Berryfields, filming moved to his private residence in 2011, The Independent reported.
Don shared the news in a video posted to the programme’s official Instagram account alongside his golden retriever, Ned. In the clip, he reflected on his tenure, stating: This Friday will be my very last Gardeners’ World. I began 23 years ago. For 16 years, we’ve been filming in this garden with my various dogs, and that’s come to an end.
He added that while the transition marks a major change, it’s a brilliant programme as ever, and it’s been a complete privilege to be part of it.
Broadcasting career spans over two decades
Don first joined the programme in 2003, taking over the lead role from Alan Titchmarsh, Great Yarmouth Mercury noted. His career included a three-year hiatus in 2008 following a minor stroke, after which he returned to host approximately 700 programmes.
Don’s television career began in 1989 with a gardening segment on ITV’s This Morning, which led to roles on BBC programs like Tomorrow’s World and Holiday.
He has also been a prolific author, publishing more than 25 books since 1990.
Don told Gardeners’ World Magazine that the professional demands of the role were constant. The commute is delightfully short, but when I go home I take the job with me, seven days a week, 24 hours a day,
he said.
The decision became clear during the summer. Then, one day this summer, I woke up and knew it was time to stop. Simple as that. They say of sportspeople wondering when to retire, ‘You just know.’ Well, I just knew.
Reflecting on his connection to the audience, Don stated: Throughout that time – and around seven hundred programmes – I have had the privilege of sharing my own abiding passion for gardens and gardening with an equally passionate, and often equally knowledgeable audience. That connection with millions, not just in Britain but across the world, who share a love of gardens, plants and the natural world is something I have always treasured and which I increasingly believe to be at the heart of a life well lived.
Canine companions feature in farewell
Don’s various dogs have served as co-stars over the years. His canine companions included a golden retriever named Nigel, who passed away in 2020, a Brittany spaniel named Peggy, who died in January 2026, and a Yorkshire terrier named Patti, who died last month. His current companion, seen alongside him in his farewell announcement, is his current dog Ned.
BBC leadership reacts to departure
Kate Phillips, the BBC’s Chief Content Officer, expressed her respect for his decision while noting the impact of his presence. Monty’s decision to leave Gardeners’ World is one I respect, but I’m still very sad he’s leaving,
she said. Monty is utterly unique, a wonderfully engaging broadcaster with a soothing, calm presence who has inspired so many with his passion for gardening.
She also noted that his work has seen him open up about personal struggles and the power of the natural world to improve mental health.
Sharon Fisher, BBC Studios Series Editor, Gardeners’ World, described the departure as the end of a remarkable chapter in the programme’s history,
according to Female First.
Industry speculation regarding a replacement has emerged. While Adam Frost and Frances Tophill are still leading candidates for the main hosting position, there is a much higher likelihood that a group of presenters will take over.
Don plans to write books and make programmes
Don does not intend to retire from broadcasting or writing. I look forward to continuing to work with and for the BBC on other projects, as well as following new avenues,
Don said. There are more books to write, more programmes to make. And of course, I will still be gardening, dog by side, here at Longmeadow.