Delve into two hidden garden treasures, unseen for 175 years, and a remarkable grotto, all accessible this weekend for free exploration
The much-anticipated Heritage Open Days event is set to take place from the 6th to the 15th of September 2024, offering a ten-day celebration of history and culture. This year marks the event's 30th anniversary, with historic houses, factories, museums, and green spaces across the UK opening their doors to the public, free of charge.
One of the highlights of the event is the participation of various gardens, each with its unique charm and history. Let's take a look at some of the gardens you can visit during this exciting period.
In Durham, Old Durham Gardens will be open on Sunday, 8th September, from 2-4pm. No pre-booking is required, making it an easy addition to your itinerary. The gardens, located in Old Durham, offer a tranquil escape with their architectural wonders and beautiful gardens.
For those in Northamptonshire, Kelmarsh Hall will be open on Thursday, 12th September, from 11am - 3pm. This historic hall, located in Main Road, Kelmarsh, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN6 9LY, boasts gardens, woodland, and lakeside. Pre-booking is not required for this visit.
Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, an award-winning site with over 200 years of history, is also participating in the event. Located in Brighton Road, Lower Beeding, Horsham, West Sussex, RH13 6PP, the gardens will be open on Friday, 6th September, from 9am - 5pm. Pre-booking is required for this visit.
In Cumbria, Hutton-in-the-Forest Gardens, located in Penrith, CA11 9TH, will be open on Sunday, 15th September, from 10am - 5pm. Again, pre-booking is not required.
In Cornwall, Trengwainton Garden, located in Madron, Penzance, TR20 8RZ, will be open from the 8th to the 15th of September, with specific timing details as follows: Sunday 8th September from 10am to 5pm, Monday 9th September from 10am to 5pm, Tuesday 10th September from 10am to 5pm, Wednesday 11th September from 10am to 5pm, Thursday 12th September from 10am to 5pm, Sunday 15th September from 10am to 5pm. Pre-booking is not required for this visit.
The Plantation Garden, a Victorian garden with features including a Gothic fountain, Italianate terrace, and formal planting, is also participating in the event. The garden, located in Norwich, Norfolk, NR2 3DB, will be open on Sunday, 8th September, from 9am-6pm. Pre-booking is not required.
In addition to these gardens, the Living Potential Walled Garden, a garden not open to the public for over 175 years, is participating in the event. The garden will be open on Saturday, 14th September, from 12-4pm. Pre-booking is not required, but it is preferred.
For those interested in guided tours, Alverstoke's Regency Garden offers tours on specific dates and times. The garden, located in Crescent Garden, Crescent Road, Alverstoke, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 2BBS, will have tours on Saturday, 7th September at 11am & 2pm, Wednesday, 11th September at 11am, and Saturday, 14th September at 11am & 2pm. Pre-booking is preferred for these tours.
Lastly, the Netherlands will join the celebrations, with 50 sites opening, including Amsterdam and Weesp, but specific gardens are not named. In the Noordwijk region, dahlia show gardens can be visited as part of the dahlia month celebrations.
So, mark your calendars and get ready to explore these historic and beautiful gardens during the Heritage Open Days event. Whether you're a gardening enthusiast or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll, there's something for everyone. Happy exploring!
