Park and woodland

Add grand scale, a pinch of exotica and a talent for design. You have some of the most stunning landscapes in the country.

What better setting than high above the Menai Straits with breathtaking views straight to Snowdonia? At Plas Newydd, on Anglesey, massed plantings add to the drama. Hydrangeas, rhododendrons, and the impressive Australian collection win over your heart.

At Painshill Park in Surrey a massive restoration project has revived this great 18th-century landscape park. One man and his follies is the theme here. Walk from the Ruined Abbey over a Chinese Bridge to the Turkish Tent.  Not forgetting the 14-acre serpentine lake fed from the river by a giant waterwheel. Memorable indeed.

The champions of Castlewellan National Arboretum in Northern Ireland are undoubtedly the trees. Giants and rarities cohabit happily. Natives such as oak and beech are joined by tender species from New Zealand and the Andes. An autumn visit is a must for blazing tree colour beside the lake. 

Enthusiastic plant hunters introduced exotic trees from around the world in the late 19th century. At Westonbirt Arboretum  in Gloucestershire they thrived and today visitors reap the benefits. Who would have believed a tree could smell like caramel? Katsura trees do. Explore and be humbled by possibly the finest tree collection in the world.

Get your Great British Heritage Pass

For any of you garden lovers or those planning a history or heritage themed trip around Britain, the essential "buy before you leave" product is the Great British Heritage Pass. Providing free entry into over 580 castles, gardens and stately homes across the length and breadth of Britain, it really is the key to unlocking Britain's secrets.

For full details and to order click here.