Cholmondeley Castle Garden, Malpas, Whitchurch, Cheshire, SY14 8AH

Tel: 01829 720383

Water gardeners can appreciate designs on large and small scales here, where the present fairy-tale Cholmondeley (pronounced Chumley) Castle (dating from 1801) presides over mature gardens and grounds that contain imaginative landscaping and interesting plantings, with woodland walks too.

In April and May 08, on Weds, Suns and Thurs, 11.00-17.00, there are bluebell walks from the Tea Room to Tower Hill.

The pretty Temple Garden has been created around a lake that boasts two islands (one complete with temple), densely planted walks, and a rockery surmounted by another temple. Mixed borders, bog plants of impressive size, and waterlilies combine to provide colour and texture throughout the season. The clever design creates many vistas, with a rustic bridge giving the opportunity to gaze into the water and spy Koi.

Beyond, visitors can follow the natural stream to its source, which is a wild pond that's more or less left to its own devices.

More formal gardens offer plenty more colour closer to the castle, with attractive mixed plantings on a smaller scale beneath its windows. And don't miss the terrace with its formal lily pond and elegant storks, or the stone-lined rill fed by a lion's mask spout.

Facilities included tearooms, toilets, plant sales, gift shop. Wheelchair access to some areas.

Opening times (2008):

Castle: not open to the public

Gardens: 21 Mar - 28 Sep 08, 11.00-17.00, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday, bank holidays. Also Sun 12 & 26 Oct 08 for autumn tints.

Admission fees (2008):

Adult £5, child £2.