MONTY DON BIDS EMOTIONAL FAREWELL TO GARDENERS’ WORLD AFTER 23 YEARS – FANS FACE A NEW ERA WITHOUT THE BELOVED PRESENTER

For millions of gardening enthusiasts, Friday evenings will never quite feel the same again. Monty Don, one of Britain’s most beloved television gardeners, has officially said goodbye to BBC’s long-running programme Gardeners’ World, bringing an end to an extraordinary 23-year chapter.

The 71-year-old presenter hosted his final regular episode on Friday, November 6, 2026. His departure marks a major turning point for the popular gardening series, which has welcomed viewers into gardens across Britain for generations.

A REMARKABLE 23-YEAR JOURNEY

Monty Don first joined Gardeners’ World in 2003, taking over as the programme’s lead presenter from Alan Titchmarsh.

Over the years, he became much more than a gardening expert. His calm voice, practical advice, gentle humour and genuine love of nature made him a familiar and comforting presence in countless households.

In the early years, he presented the programme from Berryfields, a rented garden in Stratford-upon-Avon. In 2011, the show moved to Longmeadow, his private garden in Herefordshire, which gradually became one of the programme’s most recognisable settings.

Across approximately 700 episodes, Monty shared the changing seasons, gardening successes, difficult moments and countless practical lessons with audiences in Britain and around the world.

His beloved dogs also became part of the show’s identity. Viewers grew particularly fond of Nigel, followed by Nell, Patti and, more recently, Ned, who frequently appeared alongside him as he worked in the garden.

HIS FINAL GOODBYE MOVED VIEWERS

During his final episode on November 6, Monty appeared at Longmeadow with Ned beside him and delivered an emotional farewell to the audience.

Reflecting on the years he had spent sharing his garden and gardening experiences, he thanked viewers for being part of the journey.

He acknowledged how much the garden had changed over the years, remembering the dogs who had accompanied him and the many people who had helped bring the programme to life.

His closing words were a heartfelt thank-you to everyone who had followed his work, along with his wishes for viewers to continue enjoying their own gardens.

The farewell was especially meaningful because Longmeadow had become more than simply a filming location. For many fans, it felt like visiting the garden of an old friend every Friday evening.

WHY IS MONTY DON LEAVING?

Monty announced his decision on September 8, 2026, explaining that the current series would be his last as the programme’s lead presenter.

After more than two decades of weekly television commitments, he felt the time was right for a change.

Importantly, his departure does not mean he is retiring from television or giving up gardening.

He has indicated that he intends to continue working with the BBC on other projects, explore new opportunities and write more books.

He will also continue to appear in BBC programming, including two planned winter specials celebrating his time on Gardeners’ World. He is expected to remain involved in coverage of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2027.

His decision therefore marks the end of one particular role, rather than the end of his television career.

WHO WILL REPLACE MONTY DON?

One of the biggest questions following his announcement is who will take over as the programme’s leading presenter.

The BBC has not officially confirmed a successor, leaving viewers and gardening enthusiasts speculating about who could fill such a significant role.

Several familiar faces have emerged in discussions.

Adam Frost is among the most frequently mentioned possibilities. The award-winning garden designer has become a familiar face on the programme, bringing practical experience, an approachable personality and considerable gardening knowledge.

Carol Klein, another much-loved television gardener, is also being discussed. Known for her enthusiasm for plants and extensive horticultural experience, she has built a strong connection with viewers over the years.

Other names attracting attention include Frances Tophill, Arit Anderson, Jamie Butterworth and Rachel de Thame. Some viewers have even suggested that the programme could benefit from sharing the presenting responsibilities among several familiar faces rather than appointing one permanent lead presenter.

However, these remain possibilities and audience suggestions. No official replacement has been announced.

A NEW CHAPTER FOR GARDENERS’ WORLD

Monty Don’s departure represents a significant moment for Gardeners’ World, which first began broadcasting in 1968.

The programme has introduced generations of viewers to gardening, offering advice on everything from growing vegetables and caring for flowers to designing outdoor spaces and understanding the natural world.

Each presenter has brought a different personality to the series, but Monty’s 23-year tenure has made him particularly difficult to replace.

For longtime viewers, the challenge will not simply be getting used to a new presenter. It will be adjusting to a programme without the familiar sight of Monty working at Longmeadow, sharing seasonal advice and occasionally pausing to enjoy the company of his dogs.

As the BBC prepares for the next chapter, one thing is certain: Monty Don has left a lasting mark on British gardening television.

His final regular episode may have aired, but his influence on the gardening community will continue for years to come.