Burghley House is offering new garden experiences this July.
For the first time, the private South Gardens will be open in the height of summer, providing a rare chance to see seasonal floral displays, the extensive collection of roses, vibrant borders and wildflowers.
And head gardener, Joe Whitehead, will also host two new bookable ‘Rose Tour, Talk and Tea’ afternoons during the month, including tips and advice on growing roses, followed by a strawberry afternoon tea.
Only open for a handful of weeks each year – and never during summer seasonal displays – the 28-acre South Gardens, designed by ‘Capability’ Brown in the 18th Century, provide panoramic views of the lake, Lion Bridge and the park beyond.
The gardens also offer access to the Summer House, designed by Brown, which overlooks the Serpentine Lake – dug between 1756 and 1780 as part of the famous landscaper’s naturalistic design – as well as impressive oak trees, and swathes of summer blooms.
The South Gardens will be accessible daily (excluding Fridays) 10:30am – 5pm from 18 to 31 July, with admission included with a House & Gardens or Gardens Only ticket.
Meanwhile, on 24 and 27 July, the new ‘Rose Tour, Talk and Tea’ afternoons will include a chance to learn more from the Estate’s head gardener about the history of the rose, and rose planting at Burghley – which is home to over 120 rose varieties – as well as see a demonstration on how best to use roses in floral arrangements, and join in a garden tour. The afternoons will include a Strawberry Afternoon Tea at the Summer House overlooking the lake. Tickets cost £35 per person, and must be pre-booked.
For full details, see www.burghley.co.uk