Alan Titchmarsh has become a household name in British gardening and television over several decades. From his early days on BBC Radio 2’s House in a Garden to his breakthrough role on BBC’s Nationwide, Titchmarsh steadily grew into one of the nation’s most trusted horticultural voices.
His long association with prestigious shows such as Gardeners' World and the hugely popular Ground Force alongside Charlie Dimmock and Tommy Walsh cemented his role as the gardening guru to millions. More recently, he has embraced new media platforms, sharing his knowledge on YouTube and hosting Love Your Weekend. Beyond television, Alan is a prolific author, known for both non-fiction and an array of novels since 1998.
His deep connection with the British countryside and admiration for the Royal family have earned him an MBE for services to horticulture and broadcasting. Throughout his career, his wife Alison has been his steadfast supporter. As their 50th wedding anniversary approaches, Alan has openly reflected on the preciousness of time together, acknowledging with touching honesty, “It’s amazing that we have lasted for 50 years. We haven’t got there yet, mind. We might not make it. Take nothing for granted!”
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The couple met through an amateur dramatics group in the early 1970s, married in 1975, and raised two daughters, Camilla and Polly. Originally from Ilkley in Yorkshire, Alan now splits his time mainly between their tranquil Grade II-listed Georgian farmhouse in Alton, Hampshire, and a coastal home near Cowes on the Isle of Wight.
Since moving to Hampshire in 2002, Alan and Alison have created a private sanctuary that beautifully showcases his horticultural expertise. Their expansive four-acre garden features ten miniature waterfalls, a large greenhouse, and a variety of thriving plants and trees. This prized property is valued at about £1.25 million.
Alton itself is steeped in history, with its first record dating back to the Domesday Book of 1086. The town is praised for its unspoiled countryside, charming chocolate-box cottages, and vibrant local scene including shops, pubs, and eateries. It also holds literary significance as the former home of Jane Austen.
Housing prices in Alton reflect its appeal, with an average property price of £377,766 over the past year, according to Rightmove. Flats led sales with an average price of £217,325, terraced homes averaged £344,555, and semi-detached properties commanded an average of £428,081. Meanwhile, Cowes on the Isle of Wight, where Titchmarsh spends about a third of his time, saw property values averaging £385,066.
Alan Titchmarsh’s life in these peaceful, picturesque locales underscores his enduring love for nature, history, and the quiet joys of home — a perfect backdrop for the nation’s favourite gardening maestro.