Yule discover that winter can be gardening time too
This winter, English Heritage is inviting visitors to wrap up warm, brave the outside world and experience the year-round horticultural splendour of Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens.
Situated 14 miles north west of Newcastle in the heart of the picturesque Northumberland countryside, Belsay boasts 30 acres of stunning gardens dating back 200 years, offering a wealth of natural treasures even in the midst of winter.
Adam Stenhouse, head gardener at Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens said: “For many people, winter brings a cold frost, a nip in the air and a general grey atmosphere. But not so for visitors to Belsay.
“As the jewels of Belsay’s gardens begin to sparkle with frost , the property is transformed into a magical winter paradise. If Christmas festivities prove too much and you fancy some fresh air, Belsay provides the perfect get-away and unmatchable experience that captivates all those who visit.”
The winter rhododendrons are among Belsay’s greatest floral delights, providing a spectacular blaze of colour from mid-November through to April, while the Winter Garden features a pair of sunken croquet lawns, mahonias, conifers, hollies and an abundance of scented heathers. In the corner of the Winter Garden is a towering Douglas fir that adds a festive touch.
The unique quarry garden benefits from its own microclimate and consists of a series of ravines, corridors and pinnacles decorated with vines, palm trees and other rare and unusual plants, trees and shrubs.
Adam continued: “Belsay is one of the most extraordinary picturesque garden landscapes in England and this is a good time to appreciate its finer points as it looks particularly good during the winter.
“A lot of people think wintertime is a time when you can’t grow anything, but there are lots of flowers and vegetable that can grow this time of year.”
Visitors can enjoy one of the region’s top attractions that has something for everyone – a magical place with a fascinating history, spectacular buildings and colourful year-round gardens.”
Opening hours are: November 1 to March 20 10am-4pm Open daily except Tuesday and Wednesdays. Closed December 24 to December 26 2007 and January 1 2008
Admission is: Adults £6.10/ Concessions £4.60/ Children £3.10/ Families £15.30
English Heritage members go free
For further information, call the site on 01661 881636 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay
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