Celebrate books, music & creativity at Cranleigh Arts Book Fest 2026

Zoe Gater

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Cranleigh Arts Book Fest returns for its third year this spring, exploring history, music, literature and more.

From a royal photographer’s inside story and the creation of Winnie-the-Pooh to David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust, writing workshops, poetry and lively conversation, Cranleigh Arts Book Fest is a celebration of stories in all their forms.

The festival begins on Tuesday 28 April 2026 with Travelling in Time: 160 Years of H. G. Wells. Patrick Parrinder, author of numerous books on Wells, explores the writer’s visions of “the shape of things to come” alongside key moments from his life, including his teenage years in and around Midhurst and cycling trips through Surrey later recalled in The Wheels of Chance.

You’ll know Larry Lamb from Gavin & Stacey and EastEnders, but perhaps not as a poet. The celebrated actor, author and radio presenter will share personal stories and reflections from his career, along with some of his original poetry, on Monday 4 May.

Former Arsenal defender Lee Dixon – part of the club’s legendary back four and a player with more than 20 England caps – joins us on Wednesday 6 May. Now a TV commentator, he’ll share thoughts on the upcoming World Cup along with stories from his career.

On Tuesday 12 May, writer Lucy Weldon and classical pianist William Hancox present The Radical Romantics, an exploration of the Brontë sisters and the Romantic composers, combining storytelling with live music.

Royal photographer Chris Jackson gives a fascinating talk on Wednesday 13 May about his new book Modern Majesty, revealing a royal family reinventing itself in the 21st century while balancing tradition and change.

To celebrate 100 years of Winnie-the-Pooh, James Campbell – author of The Men Who Created Winnie-the-Pooh – explores the influences behind A. A. Milne’s beloved characters on Thursday 14 May.

David Bowie, Lindsay Kemp and the birth of Ziggy Stardust are the focus of Nicholas Pegg’s colourful talk on Friday 15 May, featuring rare images, archive footage and a Q&A.

Aspiring writers can also get involved. Professional writer Jody Cooksley introduces flash fiction in a workshop on 9 May, while award-winning author Joelle Tamraz leads a memoir-writing workshop on 12 May.

Local favourites The Booming Lovelies appear on 12 May, and Cranleigh Writers celebrate their 20th anniversary with a showcase on 15 May.

For more information and to book tickets visit cranleigharts.org/whats-on and filter ‘Book Fest’.

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10 must-try wines to sip and savour this spring

Zoe Gater

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Round & About Magazine’s resident wine columnist, Giles Luckett, recommends the best wines for spring dining.

Spring is here. Well, it is if, like me, you recognise meteorological spring rather than the wobbly, can’t make up its mind, astronomical spring. 

The new season calls for new wines, and here is a collection of wines that will put a spring in your step and bring a smile to your lips.

Mandrarossa Grillo – Sicily

Sicilian wines have soared in my estimation lately, in no small part thanks to the wines from Mandrarossa. Everything I’ve tasted has been superb, and all offer exceptional value for money. Take the Mandrarossa Grillo (Vinum £12.75). 

This straw gold beauty boasts an inviting nose of warm peaches, pears, and grapefruit. Surprisingly rich, orchard fruits and citrus mingle alongside notes of basil and almond. Serve this with everything from new season asparagus to mussels.

Limited Release Hawke’s Bay Sauvignon – New Zealand

When it comes to New Zealand Sauvignon, Marlborough tends to get the acclaim. Cloudy Bay’s 1985 launch put Marlborough on the map. Not literally, of course. I found a map online dating from 1971, and it was there then. Its northern neighbour, Hawke’s Bay, is less well known, but I’ve always found the wines more interesting and better value. Take the Limited Release Hawke’s Bay Sauvignon (Laithwaites £19.99).

Offering the usual gooseberries, rhubarb, and green pepper intensity you’d expect, there’s a cool, grassiness to the mid-palate and a dusty minerality to the finish that put me in mind of a Loire Valley Sauvignon. If you’re looking for concentration without aggression, then this is the Sauvignon for you.

Sainsbury’s Taste The Difference Cotes de Gascogne – France

France’s Cotes de Gascogne (head to Bordeaux and keep going south, you can’t miss it) has always been a source of crisp, eminently quaffable whites. My latest encounter suggests something more interesting is being made. 

The Sainsbury’s Taste The Difference Cotes de Gascogne (£7.50) blends Colombard with Sauvignon to great effect. On the nose, there are citrus fruits, gooseberries and a sweet tone of peaches. The palate offers more of the same, with freshness countered by texture and ripeness. At 10.5%, this is the ideal lunch wine and would be lovely with white fish, poultry or a peppery salad.

Cune Barrel Fermented Rioja Blanco – Spain

If you’re looking for something soft and round, then head to Waitrose and get a case of the Cune Barrel Fermented Rioja Blanco (£9 down from £12). I’ve lost count of how many vintages I’ve had of this wine.  OK, I haven’t, it’s 33. 

I was introduced to this cracking wine at Harrods, and it’s been a staple ever since. Always cheerful, it consistently delivers barrel loads of fragrant, peach, honeydew melon fruit alongside almonds, vanilla, and creamy yeast. Great as an aperitif, lovely with fish, just the thing for poultry, and at home with baked cheese, it’s a wine for all occasions.

Bottega Gold Prosecco – Italy

Prosecco continues to be the fizz of choice for many wine lovers. While the vast majority remains cheap and cheerful, there are an increasing number of serious wines that are worth the extra money. Take the Bottega Gold (Majestic £22, £20 on a mixed 6).  While the presentation is as understated as Trump Tower, the wine is a class act. 

Produced from grapes grown in Valdobbiadene, the finest source, it balances exuberance with restraint. A rush of spiced pear and melon fruit on the nose is followed by a ripe, softly textured palate of orchard fruits, white blossoms, lemon zest and spice. Crucially, it’s clean and crisp on the finish, so avoiding the cloying end I often encounter with prosecco.

Planeta Chardonnay – Sicily

My second Scillian wine (spoiler alert, there are three) is the Planeta Chardonnay (Perfect Cellar £34.16).  Planeta is a brilliant producer who built their name with wines such as the Cometa (Perfect Cellar £34.16), which is made from the local Fiano grape. 

Tasting the Planeta, it’s clear that international varieties thrive here too. Golden, it has intoxicating aromas of guava, apricot, honey, and tart Sicilian lemons.  Rich and voluptuous, the buttery, tropical fruit flavours are tempered by almonds, wood-smoke, and orange zest. This mighty mouthful is just the thing for roast pork, monkfish, or rocket and goats’ cheese salad.

Graffigna AR Malbec – Argentina

And so, to the reds.  Malbec rarely fails to please, and last week I tasted one that gives a fresh perspective to this rightly popular grape.  Unlike so many Malbecs, the Graffigna Ar (Morrisons £8.50) makes the grape the star. 

Minimal oak ageing (20% for three months, in case you were wondering) and a relatively cool, short fermentation have left this with a juicy, fresh character while still offering complexity. Blueberries and blackcurrants lead the charge, with raspberries and strawberries bringing up the rear. On the finish, there are grippy, chalky tannins and a touch of black fig.

Mandrarossa Timperosse – Sicily

Back in Sicily, we find the Mandrarossa Timperosse (Vinum £17). You rarely see Petit Verdot as a varietal wine; it’s more commonly used in a supporting role in Bordeaux blends. Either Mandrarossa have done something clever, I wouldn’t rule that out, or it’s time for Petit Verdot to take the lead as this is hugely impressive. 

With the very deep colour you’d expect from PV and a sweet and savoury bouquet of mulberries, prunes, rosemary, coffee, and olives, it makes a fine first impression. Rich, velvety, and with a rounded, polished tannins, the tension between sweet and savoury continues in the mouth, making for a diverting, complex glassful. I had this on its own and with cured meats and Italian cheeses, and it was delicious on both occasions.

Journey’s End Griffin Syrah – South Africa

I’ll finish with a couple of fine New World wines. First, the Journey’s End Griffin Syrah (Ocado £27.25).  New World Syrah’s can be huge and ferocious. Journey’s End have tamed the beast and created a beauty of wine that’s powerful, yet approachable and refined. 

Inky purple with a tell-tale bouquet of blackberry and black pepper, this full-bodied wine is rounded, plump and generous. Blackberries, plums, and prunes are held in check by raspberry acidity, coffee and a hint of liquorice. Just the thing for spring lamb.

Orin Swift Papillon – Napa Valley

And to finish on a high, if you’re in the mood for a full-throttle, no-holds-barred bottle of bonkers brilliance, try the Orin Swift Papillon (Perfect Cellar £71.96). While this is a Bordeaux blend, it has about as much to do with claret as Aston Martin does mobility scooters. Inky purple, aromas of cassis, toast, mulberry, anise and chocolate don’t so much rise from the glass as fight their way out. Mouth-filling doesn’t come close to describing this wine. 

A mass of black and red fruits, peppers, pepper, chocolate, cherry, and cedar coat the mouth; the mind-boggling concoction kept from becoming jammy and heavy by the rapier-like acidity and bold, powerful structure. Hugely impressive now, this will continue to develop over the coming decade.

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Win! A Toucan Smart Home Security bundle worth £249.99

Zoe Gater

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This month, one lucky winner can enjoy a premium Toucan Smart Home Security bundle worth £249.99.

Creating a home that feels safe, calm and connected has never been more important – and smart technology is making it easier than ever to achieve.

With sleek design, intuitive features and no ongoing costs, Toucan Smart Home Security is redefining what modern home security looks like.

We’ve partnered with Toucan to offer one lucky reader the chance to win their Pro Security Bundle, worth £249.99.

Designed for effortless installation and everyday peace of mind, the bundle includes a Toucan Wireless Security Camera Pro and a Toucan Wireless Video Doorbell Pro – ideal for keeping an eye on multiple entry points around your home.

What sets the Toucan collection apart is its thoughtful balance of performance and simplicity. Advanced radar motion detection helps reduce false alerts, meaning you’re only notified when it truly matters – whether that’s a delivery arriving or unexpected movement outside your door.

The result is a system that feels reassuring rather than overwhelming.

High-definition live streaming ensures you can check in on your home at any time, from anywhere, while the clean, contemporary design means these devices sit comfortably alongside your interiors rather than disrupting them.

Perhaps most appealing of all, there are no monthly subscription fees. It’s a straightforward, one-off investment in your home’s security – without the commitment of ongoing costs.

Whether you’re upgrading your current system or starting fresh, this is a simple way to bring smarter, more stylish security into your home.

How to enter

To enter our prize draw, fill in the form below before 12pm on Thursday 30 April 2026.

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Win! A stay at a beautifully restored 17th-century inn and foodie destination in Oxfordshire

Zoe Gater

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We’re raising a toast to The Chequers in Berrick Salome – a beautifully restored 17th-century inn and foodie destination – where you could win a stay…

A good excuse to support our local pub – and when it looks as good as this gem, it would be rude not to, no?! Tucked away in Berrick Salome, The Chequers is back, freshly polished and ready to reclaim its spot as a go-to village favourite.

Reopened under the direction of experienced hospitality operator Hannah Dickson, The Chequers retains all the character you’d hope for from a Grade II listed pub – exposed beams, brick and flint detailing, and low-slung doorways – but with a fresh sense of warmth and polish.

Inside, the atmosphere strikes that elusive balance between relaxed and refined: flickering candlelight dances across dark green panelling, fresh flowers soften corners, and wood burners glow steadily through the colder months. It’s the sort of place that invites you to settle in.

On warmer days, the generous lawned garden and raised terrace come into their own – an idyllic setting for long lunches or an early evening glass of something chilled.

Part of Copper Pubs, Dickson’s carefully curated collection of characterful inns, The Chequers shares an ethos rooted in quality, locality and genuine hospitality. That philosophy is perhaps most evident on the plate.

Head chef Danny Thomas brings an impressive pedigree – with experience spanning Maze Grill and The Greyhound – yet the menu here feels refreshingly unpretentious. His cooking is confident and considered: elevated British classics sit alongside more inventive seasonal dishes, all underpinned by carefully sourced ingredients.

Expect dry-aged meats, local game and line-caught fish delivered fresh from the Devon coast. Even the pub staples are given due care – the fish and chips, for example, arrive in a crisp batter made using Brakspear ale. There’s also a strong showing for vegetarian diners, with thoughtful options woven throughout the menu.

The result is food that feels both comforting and quietly impressive – the kind you return for.

With welcoming, knowledgeable service and a setting that feels both timeless and gently elevated, The Chequers is once again finding its rhythm as a true village hub – and a destination worth seeking out.

How to enter

To enter our prize draw, fill in the form below before 12pm on Friday 15th May 2026.

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Summer’s on the way – time to wake up your garden and make the most of outdoor living

Zoe Gater

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Do you have a garden worthy of Chelsea Flower Show or are you more shame-faced than bursting with pride at your patch? As spring creeps in, it’s time to take it in hand and have a clear out –perhaps give that tired-looking furniture a new lease of life and if all else fails, call in the experts…

“I hope we inspire people to get outside into nature and to try something new…” Motivating words from a somewhat unexpected source – Sir David Beckham. The footballing god has been turning his attention from the beautiful game on the pitch to the beauty of different kinds of green spaces.

As we embrace spring’s welcome arrival at last, and our thoughts turn to spending time in our gardens, let’s get on board!

As an ambassador for The King’s Foundation he’s joining forces with fellow ambassador and RHS champion Alan Titchmarsh and horticulturalist Frances Tophill to create The RHS and The King’s Foundation Curious Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show (19th-23rd May).

When complete it will be brimming with plenty of takeaway ideas for people to grow more plants and create beautiful pockets of nature, be it on a windowsill, in a container garden or in a private garden space.

You could be forgiven for thinking getting out in our gardens has seemed a distant dream with the weather we’ve experienced at the start of the year but with spring sneaking in at last, it’s time to put the gloves on and get out with your spade, brushes and garden bin and start the transformation.

In recent years, our outdoor spaces have increasingly become an extension of our indoor spaces. Taking the indoors outside has is a continuing trend reflecting our changing lifestyles, driving towards greater sustainability and making every bit of space work.

Relaxation and entertaining are key for many when it comes to spending time in the garden which usually means a menu of dining area, a “chill zone”, kitchen or BBQ and “side dishes” of fire pits or outdoor heaters for year-round use.

Nothing says summer like the sizzle of the barbecue and dining alfresco is one of life’s simple pleasures. This means that not only do you need to think about the cooking itself – tried and tested traditional BBQ, pizza oven or no-holds-barred outdoor kitchen – but also how you’ll enjoy the food, too.

There are so many options for garden furniture, from casual bistro sets to larger wooden tables and chairs for any number of guests to gather around.

And when you’re looking to chill out then recliners, hammocks and comfy sofas certainly fit the bill. With the British weather being unreliable to say the least – some form of shelter is a desirable addition; pergolas, awnings and sails all fit the bill and after the sun has said goodnight you may well need to turn the temperature up with a chiminea, fire pit or patio heater. Add some stylish lighting and you can party into the small hours.

As we’ve already experienced this year, the climate here can be unpredictable; variable and just down-right horrible sometimes so when it comes to the finishing touches, plant diversity is key.

Guy Barter, Chief Horticulturist at the RHS, says: “Plant breeders are increasingly responding to changing weather patterns but also the expectations of gardeners who want plants that serve multiple purposes and are robust enough to survive our weather extremes. Cultivated plant diversity is important in future-proofing our gardens and this year looks set to see some new favourites take hold.”

One plant which excelled in last year’s dry summer was the tomato with demand expected to rise this year. Another growing trend is for “grow your own” and the RHS team predict tabletop veg will be big with dwarf varieties bred to fit in any space especially increasing in popularity as well as being a great way to introduce children to the delights of horticulture.

New popular choices include table-top chillies, aubergines, hanging basket cucumbers and small grape vines in addition to evergreen favourites, potted herbs.

The impact of gardening on our planet will once again be a key trend with plants for pollinators and foraging plants expected to feature prominently.

The RHS and The King’s Foundation Curious Garden team are reinforcing this, encouraging more and more of us to put our green fingers to the test, grow more varieties of plants and exercise our curiosity to find out why and how gardening can be so good for our health, happiness and the environment.

As Alan Titchmarsh says, aside from “celebrating the real joy that gardening brings to our lives”, they are highlighting “why gardeners from enthusiastic new gardeners to incredibly skilled horticulturalists, are more important today than ever”.

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Discover National Garden Scheme spaces open near you

Zoe Gater

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Need some inspiration for your garden? Visit an NGS garden near you, as part of another record-breaking fundraising year thanks to the National Garden Scheme.

Every year, thousands of people up and down the country open their gates to their gardens, their pride and joy, lovingly crafted and tended to, ready to welcome in visitors who come to marvel at their handiwork, pick up tips and no doubt, copy a few ideas – all to raise some funds for the charities supported by the National Garden Scheme.

Find out which ones are open near you to explore and make the most of the brighter days.

Berkshire
Buckinghamshire
Hampshire
Oxfordshire
Surrey
Wiltshire


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National Garden Scheme spaces to visit in Wiltshire

Zoe Gater

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Liz Nicholls invites you to visit a garden near you, as part of another record-breaking fundraising year thanks to the National Garden Scheme (NGS).

This spring, gardens big and small will open their gates, inviting visitors like you to wander among blooms and find moments of calm.

The NGS fundraiser reached a record £3.8 million total last year, in its most successful year yet, supporting nursing and health charities. With 3,000 gardens across the UK opening this year – including 500 newbies. Could you help make 2026 yet another charity record-breaker?

A country garden at Westwind, Manton

One garden which will welcome visitors, by appointment, between 11th May & 14th June, is Westwind in Manton, near Marlborough. This relaxed informal country garden, set in four acres including a 2½ acre meadow and woodland also hosts weekly outdoor learning for the village school and welcomes artists and photographers throughout the seasons.

A garden built over generations

The garden’s proud owner Kate Stewart-Hilliar tells us: “Westwind first opened for the NGS in 2023 so this will be our fourth season. We’re popular with garden clubs and some from the u3a groups. It is a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and I’ve met some truly lovely visitors. They usually walk around the property for about an hour then enjoy tea or coffee and cake on the terrace after and ask questions about the journey of the garden.

International visitors and shared gardening spirit

“Last year, a family of four came from America to visit during their tour of the UK. They brought their own picnic and we had some wonderful conversations. I have another group coming from America in May. If anyone asks for cuttings we happily let them have some. Real gardeners always share with other gardeners and lots of plants in Westwind had started off as cuttings from other gardens.”

Seasonal highlights at Westwind

“By May, the poppies and alliums should be out in full force and there will be lots to see around the property. We have a pond on the terrace so guests can have tea and watch busy dragonflies.”

The garden is a labour of love, 40 years in the making. “My late mother and stepfather created the garden over the time and have left it to me as their legacy,” adds Kate. “I was new to gardening five years ago… and am still very new to it!”

A garden with a personal legacy

“My stepfather was a well-known photographer and, back in the day, the garden appeared in many magazines. The village school’s weekly visits are my favourite – it’s so nice to be able to share the garden with the next generation.

“My mother was a teacher when we lived in Ireland, so she found this such a joy. It also helped her during her short journey with Motor Neurone Disease. She enjoyed watching and interacting with the children and she said the garden had finally found its purpose.”

She also highlights the importance of simple pleasures: “Guests like cake so I tend to buy from Vicarage Lane who have a good variety and are a great success.”

Nearby attractions such as Avebury, The Oddfellows Arms pub, and Marlborough town make it a rewarding day out.

A riverside garden at The Old Mill, Ramsbury

Another gem you can explore, on 31st May and 14th August, is The Old Mill in Ramsbury. Over 30 years its owners Annabel & James Dallas have transformed the garden from a mainly unseen space to a unique accolade to the wild and partially tamed beauty of the River Kennet and its side streams.

They explain how the garden evolved from a space where children played freely into one shaped by both nature and careful planting, with vegetables, flowers, and later dahlias extending the seasonal colour. The use of chemicals is kept to a minimum to support insect life and encourage birds and wildlife.

A record-breaking impact for health and wellbeing

“The generosity of our garden owners and volunteers continues to amaze me,” says NGS Chief Executive Dr Richard Claxton who has created gardens for hospitals and hospices.

“Each cup of tea served, each garden opened makes a difference to health and care charities across the UK. I’ve always been passionate about the effect gardens can have on wellbeing.

“Gardening and spending time in green spaces can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. Programmes such as the NGS not only raise vital funds but also promote wellbeing for visitors and volunteers alike. Spring and summer are a wonderful time to explore, and children often go free, so it’s a very pocket-friendly outing for the whole family.”

Plan your visit

For full listings, ticket info, and garden opening details, please visit ngs.org.uk

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National Garden Scheme spaces to visit in Surrey

Zoe Gater

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Need some inspiration for your garden? Visit an NGS garden near you, as part of another record-breaking fundraising year thanks to the National Garden Scheme.

This spring, gardens big and small across Surrey and beyond will open their gates, inviting visitors to wander among blooms, breathe in the scents of herbs and flowers and find moments of calm. The NGS fundraiser reached a record £3.8 million total last year, in its most successful year yet, supporting nursing and health charities nationwide.

With 3,000 gardens across the UK opening this year – including 500 newbies. Could you help make 2026 yet another charity record-breaker?

A woodland garden in Chobham

Just one of those you can explore is Westways Farm, Gracious Pond Road, Chobham GU24 8HH, owned by Paul and Nicky Biddle who bought the Queen Anne House (not open) 34 years ago. Surrounded by woodlands planted in 1930s with mature and rare rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and magnolias, it boasts extensive lawns, sunken pond garden and a charming Victorian design glasshouse.

“The bones of the garden were laid out in the 1940s/50s,” says Nicky, “and although when we bought the house it was pretty much a jungle, we knew we had something a bit special.”

Decades of dedication and growth

This was confirmed with a visit from the former head of gardens at Savill Garden and for more than 25 years now the Biddles have been opening their six-acre garden for others to enjoy the lovely woodland and sunken garden.

The hard work, Nicky concedes, is more than worth the effort to meet so many people over the years who have appreciated coming round.

The value of opening a garden

As with all those who open their green and pleasant land for ‘strangers’ to enjoy and no doubt get a few ideas from, she adds: “Probably the greatest bonus is that while we enjoy ourselves we are helping raise much-needed funds for the fantastic charities the NGS supports.”

A record-breaking impact for health charities

“It’s extraordinary to see so many gardens welcoming visitors, and the generosity of our garden owners and volunteers continues to amaze me,” says NGS Chief Executive Dr Richard Claxton who has created gardens for hospitals and hospices.

“Each cup of tea served, each garden opened makes a tangible difference to health and care charities across the UK. “I’ve always been passionate about the effect gardens and gardening can have on wellbeing.

“Gardening and spending time in green spaces can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. Programmes such as the NGS not only raise vital funds but also promote wellbeing for visitors and volunteers alike. What’s more, spring and summer are a wonderful time to explore, and children can often go free, so it’s a very pocket-friendly outing for the whole family to enjoy.”

A plant lover’s paradise at Tanglewood Cottage

Tanglewood Cottage, Ottershaw Park, Chertsey KT16 0QG – t/c Barbara Sampson

Forty-three years in the making, this is a true plant lover’s garden with a collection of unusual trees and shrubs, herbaceous plants, and bulbs. Two ponds are nestled within 5 acres of ancient oak woodland, creating a wildlife paradise. Please be aware that paths and grassy areas may become muddy and slippery in wet weather.

A traditional country garden at Dolphin House

Opening a garden is about more than just fundraising. For many owners, it’s a reason to maintain their plots to perfection, try new planting ideas, and connect with fellow horticulturists.

The two-acre traditional country garden at Dolphin House in Shackeleford GU8 6AH boasts a variety of interesting features notably an extensive serpentine wall reputedly built by the Napoleonic prisoners of war.

Christine Bell says: “We are keen gardens and have done all the planting ourselves the garden is constantly evolving as we try to make improvements and changes. We love meeting other keen gardeners and enjoy discussing plants and all things gardening. We hope visitors will enjoy the romantic atmosphere of a traditional country garden in a lovely village setting.”

The diversity of NGS Gardens

Across the UK, NGS gardens range from tiny urban plots to sprawling country estates. Each garden has its own character, whether it’s a cottage garden full of traditional charm, a chalk garden of rare botanical specimens, or a sculpture-filled landscape. And with by-arrangement visits, even smaller or private gardens can share their beauty with visitors.

Plan your visit to Surrey gardens

So this year, make time to explore Surrey’s best blooms and perhaps discover the therapeutic magic of gardens.

Whether you’re an avid gardener or a first-time visitor, the NGS, which celebrates its centenary in 2027, opens doors – and hearts – across the county. With tea, cake, and the chance to support local nursing and health charities, a visit is both a treat and a contribution.

For full listings, ticket info, and garden opening details, please visit ngs.org.uk.

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National Garden Scheme spaces to visit in Oxfordshire

Zoe Gater

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Liz Nicholls invites you to visit a garden near you, as part of another record-breaking fundraising year thanks to the National Garden Scheme (NGS).

This spring, gardens big and small will open their gates, inviting visitors like you to wander among blooms and find moments of calm. The NGS fundraiser reached a record £3.8 million total last year, in its most successful year yet, supporting nursing and health charities.

With 3,000 gardens across the UK opening this year – including 500 newbies. Could you help make 2026 yet another charity record-breaker?

A creative escape at Bolters Farm

Bolters Farm in Chilson, near Chipping Norton, will welcome visitors on 3rd & 4th May, along with Kings Cottage, and by arrangement between now and September.

Amanda Cooper, artist and garden owner with her husband Robert, tells us: “We’ve taken part for over ten years and were very pleased to be awarded the special NGS ‘trowel’ last summer! The experience has been nothing but positive. We’ve had one-off visits from the Netherlands and the USA. One fascinating scientist visiting us last summer wished to examine the fig tree to see if a particular tiny white mite had migrated further north… and it had!

“Over the bank holiday, we might expect something like 200 visitors plus privately organised small outings for local clubs and a large party from Germany. Garden visitors are a breed of their own; thoughtful, caring, gentle folk who enjoy the beauty and peace of this area. One couple spent the whole afternoon asleep on a bench in the sun last year!

“Our garden this year features a new little Wendy house that we got for our grandchildren. I’m forever looking to improve the garden’s planting and structure… What I love is how it evolves, as if it has a mind of its own, which it does!

“All our neighbours make the cakes with particular reference to one lady whose husband has Parkinson’s. The NGS gave £450,000 last year to help people with Parkinson’s, so she feels she’s giving back in that way. Another one of my cake makers is 96 this year.”

Community spirit in Abingdon

Becky, Liz and Paul Aylward will again open their gardens at both 116 and 118 Oxford Road in Abingdon on 31st May, and by arrangement between June and July.

Liz says: “We’ve had great pleasure in sharing our garden with people for the NGS since 2012. We were nervous at first, but we’ve made many friends and met so many interesting people. The range is endless, from younger couples with their first home looking for ideas to gardeners more experienced than we’ll ever be!

“We also host gardening clubs and other associations. The most unusual group were from the USA. They arrived by coach and it was a joy to serve them tea in lovely old bone china cups and traditional cakes, many of which they hadn’t tried before. Many visitors return to us because they enjoy it, to see what we’ve changed, and most visitors have tea and buy a few plants – all in aid of charity.

“Our team on the day are key to our success and we couldn’t manage without their input. These are quite small gardens compared with some but they are packed with amazing plants and shrubs, also quirky features made mostly of recycled bits and bobs and unusual planters using things many people throw out.”

Historic gardens in Oxford

Trinity College, Oxford, has been taking part in the scheme for several decades. Its previous head gardener, Paul Lawrence, was due to be recognised by the NGS for his outstanding contribution but sadly he died in 2020. The garden team, now led by Kate Burtonwood, will welcome visitors again on 2nd August.

Kate tells us: “In the last few years, we’ve had visitors from Argentina and New Zealand. They are particularly captivated by the history of the garden – there has been a garden on this site since 1290! This year our new garden areas will hit their stride after six years of intensive work.

“The college management have really listened to messages about sustainability and biodiversity. Our garden now has a less manicured look and very long-flowering seasons to support pollinators through the year. Cream teas will be on sale in the historic Dining Hall for that extra ‘Oxford’ experience. Lincoln College, which is about 100 yards away on Turl Street is also open at the same time.”

A pocket-friendly day out for all

NGS Chief Executive Dr Richard Claxton adds: “Spring and summer are a wonderful time to explore, and children often go free, so it’s a very pocket-friendly outing for the whole family.”

Plan your visit

Please visit ngs.org.uk to plan your visits.

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National Garden Scheme spaces to visit in Hampshire

Zoe Gater

Posted on

Need some inspiration for your garden? Visit an NGS garden near you, as part of another record-breaking fundraising year thanks to the National Garden Scheme.

This spring, gardens big and small across Hampshire and beyond will open their gates, inviting visitors to wander among blooms, breathe in the scents of herbs and flowers and find moments of calm.

The NGS fundraiser reached a record £3.8 million last year, in its most successful year yet, supporting nursing and health charities nationwide. With 3,000 gardens across the UK opening this year – including 500 newbies – could you help make 2026 yet another charity record-breaker?

A charming cottage garden in Alton

Spend an afternoon at The Thatched Cottage in Alton GU34 3EG and don’t be surprised if you see Tom and Barbara wandering around, not the owners, but a pair of ducks who are lucky enough to call the 16th century cottage home.

When David and Cally Horton moved in it had been somewhat neglected but with a helping hand from a neighbour, they restored it to its bountiful best and opened to the public. The couple consider themselves “so lucky to have the opportunity to raise funds for the amazing nursing charities supported by the NGS”.

The power of gardens to lift spirits

Cally’s garden is a testament to the power of the natural world: “During lockdown we provided somewhere for people to mingle safely. A depressed woman admitted that she had woken up with nothing to look forward to, so came to look at a garden. As she left, she said that she was now looking forward to the week ahead. This is the sort of thing that makes it worthwhile.

“Our visitors sit with and chat to complete strangers over tea and delicious cake. Very few people leave without saying thank you, what a wonderful garden it is and how it has given them inspiration and ideas for their own.”

Children and dogs on leads are also welcome to discover all that lies within, not least a restored gypsy caravan (complete with crystal ball and guard dog!). Take time to savour the delicious cakes and a cuppa at tables under cover in the garden too.

A record-breaking impact for health charities

“It’s extraordinary to see so many gardens welcoming visitors, and the generosity of our garden owners and volunteers continues to amaze me,” says NGS Chief Executive Dr Richard Claxton, who has created gardens for hospitals and hospices. “Each cup of tea served, each garden opened makes a tangible difference to health and care charities across the UK.

“I’ve always been passionate about the effect gardens and gardening can have on wellbeing. Gardening and spending time in green spaces can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. Programmes such as the NGS not only raise vital funds but also promote wellbeing for visitors and volunteers alike. Children can often go free, so it’s a very pocket-friendly outing for the family to enjoy.”

A traditional garden at Binsted Place

For many opening their gardens is a reason to maintain their plots to perfection, try new planting ideas, and connect with fellow horticulturists.

Max and Catherine Hadfield’s 17th century farmhouse Binsted Place in Alton GU34 4PQ is a series of rooms covering around one and a half acres in a traditional style with a lily pond and productive vegetable garden and orchards – the fruits of these labours are very much Max’s domain, while Catherine can often be found giving some TLC to her fragrant roses.

She says: “I spend many hours in my garden, as does my husband and, most of all, our wonderful part-time gardener Dom Brooking. The idea that it was good enough for others to want to visit and to donate money to charity was very appealing.

“We have also opened for other local charities: Cardiac Rehab, Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice and our village church and hall. I’m always so glad to think that our hard work can give others pleasure and make a contribution. We always enjoy meeting the lovely people who visit, which is an added bonus!”

The beauty and variety of NGS Gardens

Across the UK, NGS gardens range from tiny urban plots to sprawling country estates. Each garden has its own character, whether it’s a cottage garden full of traditional charm, a chalk garden of rare botanical specimens, or a sculpture-filled landscape. And with by-arrangement visits, even smaller or private gardens can share their beauty with visitors.

Plan your visit

So this year, make time to explore Hampshire’s best blooms and discover the therapeutic magic of gardens. Whether you’re an avid gardener or a first-time visitor, the NGS, which celebrates its centenary in 2027, opens doors – and hearts – across the county.

For full listings, ticket info, and garden opening details, please visit ngs.org.uk.

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