ARLEY HALL AND GARDENS, near Great Budworth, Northwich, Cheshire (01565 777353 or 01565 777284)

Herbaceous borders, topiary, rhododendrons and roses; walled, scented herb and woodland gardens.

BRIDGEMERE GARDENS, Bridgemere, Nantwich, Cheshire (01270 521100)

A Victorian garden with access for the disabled and refreshments.

Open daily.

HARDWICK HALL, Doe Lea, Chesterfield, Derbyshire (01246 850430)

A garden with mixed borders, roses and herbs set in walled courtyards and a restaurant and shop.

Open Wednesday to Sunday.

HARLOW CARR BOTANICAL GARDENS, Harrogate, North Yorkshire (01423 565418)

A 68-acre garden featuring ornamental gardens, streamside, woodland arboretum, trial grounds and national collections.

Open all year.

LIVERPOOL UNIVERSITY BOTANIC GARDENS, Ness, Neston, South Wirral.

An array of rhododendrons, azaleas, sorbus and primulas in rock, heather, rose and water gardens.

Open all year.

STUDLEY ROYAL, Ripon, North Yorks (01765 608888)

An 18th century landscape water garden with temples and statuary and the ruins of the 12th century Fountains Abbey.

Open daily.