A host of private gardens across Somerset are opening their gates to the public this Summer, in aid of St Margaret's Hospice.

The Glorious Gardens initiative sees supporters of the charity open their gardens to visitors from April until August so families with admittance fees going toward the hospice charity.

In all 16 gardens are participating in the scheme, ranging from a one-acre orchard, through to a 27 acre garden set behind a 17th century home.

On Sunday May 21, Arden Cottage in Williton will host visitors in the garden of medieval longhouse, where climbing roses and shrubs set the scene for a great day out.

On May 28, the meadows and ponds of Westleigh Farm in Lydeard St Lawrence will be open to the public, which promise to be 'ablaze' with purple marsh orchids.

Kerry Baillie, Community Partnerships Manager, said: “We’re so excited that Glorious Gardens is back for 2023! We know how important our hospice gardens are to the health and wellbeing of patients and families who come to St Margaret’s Hospice.

"To be able to provide the local community with these lovely open spaces to enjoy is a privilege. They are peaceful places where people can go to relax and de-stress as well as reflect and spend quality time together.

“We’re so grateful to all our wonderful garden owners for their dedication and hard work to make this year’s season possible. The gardens are simply spectacular, and we really hope you enjoy visiting them.”

Rachel Hopping from Greenslade Taylor Hunt, which is supporting the initiative, said: “GTH is delighted to support this campaign. It’s a fantastic way to engage our local communities and raise funds for the incredible work that St Margaret’s Hospice Care carries out every single day.”

For further information about the Glorious Gardens initiative, see the St Margaret's Hospice website.