Open gardens in Dorset - May 2016

PUBLISHED: 11:42 29 April 2016 | UPDATED: 11:42 29 April 2016

The sweeping panoramic views at Wincombe

Archant

There are some wonderful NGS gardens throwing open their gates this month

The Manor House

Over 16 acres of stunning parkland set in the middle of Beaminster with mature trees, lake and waterfall. A beautifully restored walled garden, lovingly planted over the past seven years. Woodland walk and wildflower meadows. Homemade teas, or bring a picnic.

• When: 1 & 2 May/ 29 & 30 May as part of the Beaminster Festival (11am-5pm)

• Where: North Street, Beaminster, DT8 3DZ 

Old Rectory

Four acres of formal and informal gardens surrounding an 18th century rectory, with splendid views and 10 acres of woodland walks. Flourishing and newly extended bog garden awash with primulas and irises in May. Homemade teas.

• When: 2 May (2-5pm)

• Where: Pulham, DT2 7EA 

Braddocks

Three acres of plant¬packed sloping gardens, with primulas, wild flower meadows, stream and ponds. Shady woodland garden with azaleas, rhododendrons and fine mature specimen trees. Homemade teas.

• When: 10 May (2-5pm)

• Where: Oxbridge, Bridport, DT6 3TZ 

Wolverhollow

Over an acre of informal garden on different levels features at this NGS venue on Elsdon Lane. Numerous paths lead to the shady lower garden, with meadow and stream. Primulas in May not to be missed. Homemade teas.

• When: 15 & 16 May (11.30am - 4.30pm)

• Where: Monkton Wyld, DT6 6DA 

Wincombe Park

Extensive mature garden with sweeping panoramic views down to the lake and enchanting woods, through which you can wander in the bluebells. The garden is a riot of colour in the spring, with azaleas, rhododendrons and camellias flowering amongst unusual shrubs and trees. Beautiful walled kitchen. Homemade teas.

• When: 15 & 18th May (2-5pm)

• Where Shaftesbury, SP7 9AB  

Slape Manor

River valley garden with spacious lawns and primula¬fringed stream down to the lake. Admire magnificent hostas and gunnera as well as mature Wellingtonias, wisterias, and rhododendrons. Homemade teas.

• When: 29 May (2-5pm)

• Where: Netherbury, DT6 5LH 

READ ON 

• Events and things to do in Dorset - May 2016 - Helen Stiles rounds up her pick of events happening around the county this month