On Wednesday, 6th September, the last opening of Kilver Court Gardens, Shepton Mallet, will take place in aid of the National Garden Scheme for 2017. The gardens are generously opened in aid of the NGS and the charities we support, and all the admission money is donated to them.

Kilver Court Gardens in Somerset is the perfect day out for those looking to explore a little known treasure, created over 100 years ago as an oasis of tranquillity for a factory workforce. Today, the gardens, which have appeared on BBC Gardeners’ World, are like stepping into another world – a peaceful oasis away from modernity.

Visitors can wander by the millpond, explore the formal and informal gardens and enjoy a replica of the splendid Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal-winning rockery on the north side of the gardens, where a gushing recirculated stream flows from pool to pool, over a variety of rocky outcrops and waterfalls into the lake. All this is set against the stunning backdrop of the Charlton viaduct, so don’t forget to walk under the arches to the recently newly planted colour borders.

Visitors should be aware that there are some slopes, and that the rockery is not accessible for wheelchairs but can still be viewed. Disabled parking spaces can be found inthe lower car park, with other designated parking situated between Mulberry and Kilver Court.

There is still time to book a ‘by arrangement’ garden visit to the following two gardens: Henley Mill, Wookey, BA5 1AW, Sally and Peter Gregson, tel: 01749 676966; and Stoberry Garden, Wells, BA5 3LD, Frances and Tim Young, tel: 01749 672906.

Judith Stanford