A hint of post-lockdown colour as Rutland Open Gardens announces 2021 programme

The National Garden Scheme has given us a tantalising glimpse of more colourful times to come after releasing this year's programme of Rutland open gardens.

Open gardens were restricted to remote viewings online last year because of lockdown and tier restrictions, but a provisional programme was released last week.

There will be 16 gardens opening in Rutland from March to August, starting with Gunthorpe Hall on Tuesday, March 16.

It includes two new venues - the Old Vicarage in Harringworth, and Robin Hill in Uppingham.

Robin Hill has been transformed over the last three years by Andrew and Kathy Robinson.

It was due to make its bow in the Uppingham Open Gardens day last year, but will get a second chance on Sunday, June 6.

All garden openings will be subject to coronavirus restrictions in place at the time, but Andrew believes it would be an 'essential' pick-me-up after the last 10 months.

"There was no garden when we moved in - just a large lawned area so apart from a tree it was a completely blank canvas.

"So everything you see now has been planted by us in the last three years."

There is a daunting example set by neighbour and fellow open garden exhibitor Doug Stacey, who has been a judge for Britain in Bloom.

They created terraces and set out new flower beds in their sloping garden which commands scenic views over open countryside.

A pond was also dug out, and a stream which had been completely overgrown and obscured, was cleared.

"There has to be a minimum standard of interest to open to the public so we were inspected by the local organiser," Andrew added.

"I think being a newly-created garden and the views give it that interest. We enjoyed doing it. We're not obsessed by gardening but it's quite therapeutic."

Other gardens included are The Old Hall and 59 Thistleton Road, in Market Overton, Burrough Hall, The Old Vicarage, Burley, The Old Vicarage, Whissendine, Redhill Lodge, Barrowden, Manton gardens, Exton Hall, and Prebendal House, Empingham.

Admission ranges from £4 to £8, free for children, with all money raised going to nursing and healthcare charities.

For more details, visit www.ngs.org.uk