Fans in Tears as Monty Don Shares Garden Project Inspired by Late Dog Nigel

Monty Don, the much-loved face of BBC’s Gardeners’ World, has revealed a surprise update that left his fans buzzing. Known for his passion for both gardening and animals, Monty has finally unveiled the project he has been quietly working on behind the scenes – a brand-new “dog house” – and this week he took followers inside it for the very first time.

The 70-year-old presenter shared the news on Instagram, uploading a photo of a camera crew set up inside the finished structure. With his trademark warmth, Monty teased: “First filming inside the Dog house!” It was a simple caption, but one that immediately set his audience alight with curiosity.

A Project Rooted in Love for His Dogs

For years, Monty has charmed audiences not just with his expertise in the garden, but also with the presence of his loyal four-legged companions. Fans of Gardeners’ World are used to seeing his Golden Retriever Ned padding around during episodes, while his other dog Patti often makes appearances as well.

It was no surprise, then, that many assumed the new dog house had been designed with his pets in mind. The space, built from wood and brick, has been slowly coming together for months. Monty occasionally posted progress pictures, sparking speculation about what the “dog house” might become. Now, with filming underway inside, the mystery is starting to unravel.

Fans React With Excitement

The Instagram reveal immediately drew hundreds of comments. One follower exclaimed: “Woww, exciting!” while another added: “Wish I was there, too!” Others joked about wanting to move in themselves, with one teasing, “Nice, when can I move in?”

More heartfelt messages also poured in. Some fans wondered if the dog house might serve as a tribute to Monty’s late retrievers, Nigel and Nell. Both were beloved not only by Monty but also by viewers, who grew attached to them over the years.

Nigel died suddenly in 2020, a loss Monty described as peaceful and without suffering, while Nell passed away in 2023 following a cancer diagnosis. The suggestion that their memory might live on in this new space clearly struck a chord with his audience.

An Unexpected Filming Location

What makes this update particularly intriguing is the fact that filming has now moved inside the dog house itself. Fans are curious to see how it will feature on Gardeners’ World or in another upcoming BBC project. Monty has not yet revealed the full purpose of the building, leaving speculation wide open.

Is it purely a retreat for Ned and Patti? A memorial to Nigel and Nell? Or perhaps a creative extension of Monty’s gardening world, blending his two great loves – horticulture and animals – into something brand new for television?

A Lifetime of Gardens and Companions

Monty’s connection to dogs has always been deeply personal. His garden is not only a place of work and inspiration but also a sanctuary for his family of pets.

Nigel, in particular, became something of a television star in his own right, loved by viewers for his gentle presence. When Nigel passed away, Monty buried him in the garden with a collection of tennis balls, a touching gesture that fans still remember with emotion.

By sharing these intimate moments with the public, Monty has created a bond with his audience that goes beyond gardening tips and plant care. His dogs are part of the story, and his willingness to bring viewers into their lives – and losses – has only deepened that connection.

What Comes Next

For now, Monty is keeping the full details of the project under wraps. But one thing is clear: this new filming venture marks an “exciting first” in his long career. Whether the dog house becomes a recurring set for future episodes or simply a cozy corner for Ned and Patti, fans are already eager to see it appear on screen.

As one follower put it in the comments: “We look forward to the episode!” And with Monty’s history of blending beauty, warmth, and authenticity in everything he does, there’s little doubt that his latest idea will be as beloved as the gardens he has spent decades cultivating.