Belsey Hall in Northumberland is now offering groups guided tours of its gardens and hall.
The guided tours of the gardens, led by the head gardener, take groups to see the seasonally interesting, rare and exotic plants.
Groups will be able to find out about the magnolias, colourful rhododendrons, trees and shrubs, and also the resident, rare red squirrels.
The highlight of the tours is a walk around the quarry garden, which was created when stone was cut in 1807 for the Regency hall. Its steep ravines, sheer rock faces and pinnacles create a microclimate that make it possible to grow tender plants beyond their normal northern limit.
Groups can also arrange afternoon tea in the Victorian Kitchen Tearoom to accompany the tours and can pre-book a free tour of Belsey Hall to discover more about the history of the Greek Revival building and its European inspired architecture.
More about Belsey Hall, Castle and Gardens
Belsey Hall, Castle and Gardens is a picturesque estate in Northumberland, in the north east of England. It was created by the Middleton family in 1270 and remains in their possession today.
It contains a mix of architecture, including a ruined Medieval castle enlarged into a Jacobean mansion, and a Greek Revival villa, which are all linked by the gardens.
The Medieval castle was built as a strong refuge during the centuries of Anglo-Scottish boarder warfare.
The villa is displayed without furnishings to reveal the craftsmanship of its construction, with rooms arranged around the central Pillar Hall.
The landscape divides into formal gardens near the house and wild gardens stretching beyond.
For more information visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/belsay-hall-castle-and-gardens/
