Visiting a National Garden Scheme garden isn’t just for adults – there’s plenty of fun (and homemade cake) to be had during the school holidays at our gardens for children too. And, with children going free at the majority of our gardens, a day out at a National Garden Scheme garden is a great way to have a budget-friendly break from digital devices, reconnect with nature and support great causes!
Although the first blooms of summer are behind us there is still plenty to look forward to with the National Garden Scheme. We have fabulous late summer gardens packed with colour and interest just waiting for your visit throughout August and September.
We have a wonderful array of special garden events happening across the country this year. Whether it’s a private tour with a gardener, after hours access or delicious refreshments, there’s plenty to explore. This summer we also have partnerships with English Heritage and The Pig hotels who are opening their gates to visitors for the National Garden Scheme.
Gather friends and neighbours and join our annual fundraiser – the Great British Garden Party. Coffee morning or afternoon tea, book swap or cake sale – choose the event that works for you. It’s simple to get involved: sign up to receive your FREE fundraising pack, invite your friends, and enjoy time together in the knowledge that every pound they donate will make a difference to vital nursing and health charities; charities that so many of us, our family and friends rely on in times of need.
With a move to more wildlife-friendly gardening we explore the wild and the wonderful, the organic and the sustainable gardens opening in August, September and beyond for the National Garden Scheme. Plan a visit, pick up some top tips and be inspired.
The National Garden Scheme gives visitors unique access to over 3,300 exceptional private gardens in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands and raises impressive amounts of money for nursing and health charities through admissions, teas and cake. We can’t do this without the wonderful support of our garden owners. Find out more about opening your garden and being part of the wonderful National Garden Scheme family.
From rolling hills and valleys to coastal retreats and city secrets National Garden Scheme gardens across Wales offer a diverse and magical portfolio of gardens to explore. With almost 300 gardens opening in 2025 there are plenty to enjoy including a selection of wonderful new gardens.
2024 was another landmark year for the National Garden Scheme with the charity donating a record £3,501,227. The impact of these donations to our major nursing and health beneficiaries means that thousands of people who live with health conditions such as cancer or Parkinson’s, who have poor mental health, or who struggle financially as unpaid carers, have been supported by our funding of the nurses, health professionals and case workers who support them. Our funding also provides support to those in the Gardens and Health sector, to community gardens and to those working in horticulture.
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activities throughout the year