Plants&Gardens Yours for the day

It’s that time of year again when the National Gardens Scheme gives access to some amazing gardens we rarely get to explore – and all for a good cause too

TheNational Garden Scheme is a UK-based charity that has been running since 1927. Its main purpose is to raise funds for various health charities by opening up private gardens to the public, with new members joining the scheme every year. It means that across the Shire patch, throughout May and June, and in some cases later in the summer too, a host of inspirational gardens will be welcoming visitors.

Garden owners apply to take part in the scheme, and if accepted, are featured in the esteemed NGS Yellow Book. The experience can be very rewarding, providing an opportunity to share your

Seen on screen…

One garden that is welcoming visitors this year as part of the NGS is Brynkinalt Hall, near Wrexham. Used as the setting for the Netflix adaptation of Lady Chatterley’s Lover, this five-acre woodland shrubbery, until recently overgrown, has been cleared and replanted, and features a rhododendron walk, historic ponds, grottos, a ha-ha, a new stumpery and ancient redwoods and yews. There is also a two-acre garden beside the Grade II* listed house with roses and stunning ornamental hedges. Brynkinalt is open to the public on 4th June and again in September. Opening times and details of all participating gardens can be found on the NGS website at www.ngs.org.uk

Pick Of The Patch

Among the inspirational gardens opening their gates as part of the NGS this year are these local favourites:

60 Kennedy Avenue – Cheshire

The Homestead, Sandiway is a compact gem love of gardening with others and to showcase your achievements to a wider audience. For plant lovers, it’s a fantastic way to get inspiration for your garden, as well as to learn more about different plants and practical techniques. You can search for gardens by region or by date on the NGS website, and tickets can be purchased either online or at the garden on the day of the visit. Many venues also offer refreshments and plant sales, making it a great day out for the whole family.

Essential work

The NGS also organises other fundraising events such as lectures, workshops and plant sales in support of charities including Macmillan, Marie Curie and Hospice UK. Last year saw a return to near-normality for visiting after the lockdowns, and despite the prolonged drought that led many gardens to close, the scheme announced donations totalling £3.11 million.

Small suburban garden previously featured in Amateur Gardening magazine, reopening after a year’s absence following a redesign. For its size it certainly packs a punch. Well worth a visit.

Windy Ridge – Shropshire

Admired for its structure, creative planting and all-season colour, the garden more than lives up to its award-winning reputation. Over 1,000 species, mostly labelled, are beautifully set off by lawns, plenty of water and fascinating sculpture.

Stretton Old Hall – Cheshire

Five-acre countryside garden with stunning borders, scree garden, walled kitchen garden and glasshouse. Wildflower meadows and a wildlife walk by the lake, all with breathtaking views.

Also recommended: Mayfield, 5 Cobbs Lane and The Homestead (all Cheshire), The Mill House (Shropshire).