One of the highlights of this time of year is gardens bursting to life with colourful blooms. This week you may have caught the RHS Chelsea Flower Show on your TV as the popular event took place, or you might be planning a visit to the Manchester Flower Festival this year.
While these professional displays can be impressive and inspiring, there are dozens of beautiful gardens hidden behind people’s private homes which are just as beautiful. Thanks to the National Garden Scheme, many of them will be opening their doors (or should we say gates) to visitors this spring and summer.
More than 3,500 private gardens participate in the scheme, with most opening to the public on set dates, while some can be booked by arrangement for private viewings with the garden owner. Not only does it allow passionate gardeners to share their creations with others, but it also helps raise money for charity thanks to visitor’s donations.
