Arley Hall and Gardens, Northwich, Cheshire, CW9 6NA

Tel: 01565 777353

This estate has been the home of the Egerton-Warburton family for over 500 years, who are clearly proud of their historic house and grounds.

One of the garden's claims to fame is the first double herbaceous border in the country - surprising how something so simple (a long lawn bordered by spectacular planting) should be so revolutionary at the time. There's also a stunning avenue of holly-leaved oaks (Quercus ilex) clipped into huge cylinders. Arley hosts an annual garden festival at the end of June which is extremely popular.

From February 08, as part of Cheshire's Year of Gardens 08, look out for resident sculptor Rachel Ramchurn's new creation in The Grove.

Later in the year, on 25th and 26th October, there's a Pumpkin Olympics with traditional horticultural competitions plus athletic games with pumpkins.

Opening times (2008):

Gardens, chapel and grounds:

21st March - 28th September 2008: Tues-Sun & bank holidays

October: weekends only

11.00-17.00 (last entry 16.30)

Hall open Tues, Sun and bank holidays (but not Sunday 27th April 08)

Admission fee (2008):

Gardens: Adult £5.50; child 5-15 £2.00; family £13.00

Hall: Adult £2.50; child £1.00; family £7.00