Blooming beautiful attractions in over 3,000 private gardens

THE National Garden Scheme opens up access to blooming beautiful attractions every year, offering visitors a rare chance to see places rarely accessible to the public.

- By BARBARA HODGSON

A family enjoy the NGS garden at The Old Rectory, Brandon Parva, Norfolk

More than 3,000 private gardens across the UK take part and by doing so they are all helping the scheme to raise money for nursing and health charities.

Among them is a Gateshead garden which will be having an open day on May 31. Ferndene House at Ryton will be inviting people into its grounds between 12.30pm and 4.30pm on the day and, as well as immersing themselves in its seasonal attractions, visitors will be able to indulge in home-made teas, wood-fired pizza and prosecco, with the entry fee and added treats all set to boost the charity coffers.