With ‘Staycation’ being the ‘buzz’ word this year, having taken on a significance like never before, we are all looking to make the most of the opportunities around us and if it’s an outdoor space…now summer is upon us…well that’s even better! Gardens and gardening have increasingly been associated with improving our mental health and well-being, in other words, gardens can help us to relax and de-stress!

The National Garden Scheme has been raising funds for charities by showcasing private gardens throughout England and Wales to the general public for over 90 years, 2020 having been the only time throughout its history, it had been forced to close its garden gates due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Scheme is also passionate about the physical and mental health benefits of gardens and gardening too. In 2016 an annual funding programme was initiated to support gardens and health-related projects run by charities, following which a year later the National Garden Scheme launched their annual Gardens and Health Programme to continue raising awareness of the impact gardens and gardening has on our physical and mental health.

Visitors can enjoy access to an amazing 3600 unique private gardens! With so many different types of beautiful gardens to choose from, the National Garden Scheme have put together a helpful selection of inspirational ‘Collections’.

You may be interested to know that a selection of our B&Bs have gardens that are either part of the NGS or are open to the public at certain times.

The Ridges B&B, near Chorley, has a stunning  garden covering some 3.5 acres and is one of Lancashire’s best-known gardens to visit, having featured in the NGS Yellow Book since 1995! The Ridges was originally a cotton mill owner’s house built in the 1700s. The gardens have gradually been restored – features include a ‘living arch’ through which there is a large formal lawn fringed by natural woodland and surrounded by long borders with perennials, a woodland walk with winding paths through restored glades and dells and a stream garden leading towards a pool edged with vibrantly coloured Iris.

So, whether you are ‘green-fingered’ and looking for some horticultural inspiration or to just relax and appreciate the sheer beauty of these gardens, enjoy…

 

* Covid-19 Coronavirus – We would advise you check the latest Guidance before you travel.