Open your garden

Thanks to the generosity of garden owners, volunteers and visitors we’ve donated over £77.8 million to leading nursing and health charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK, Parkinson’s UK, Carers Trust and The Queen’s Institute of Community Nursing. In 2025 alone, we made a record donation of almost £3.9 million.

We’re only able to donate these life‑changing amounts thanks to the wonderful gardens that open their gates to visitors each year. That’s why we’re always on the lookout for beautiful new spaces to share!

Visitors at the Great Missenden Gardens village opening. A wonderful day out for all ages. Photo credit Benjamin Mole.

Whether you’re part of a group of small gardens or opening on your own, we’d love to hear from you. Rolling acres, cosy cottage borders, wildlife-friendly havens, or even a thriving community allotment—every garden has its own charm and each one offers visitors a unique, personal experience.

“Our open days are a community event, widely appreciated in many ways and by many people.” – Garden owner

You can help…

One of the most rewarding ways you can support the National Garden Scheme is by opening your much loved garden to visitors. It might feel a little daunting at first, but if you’re passionate about your outdoor space—and friends are always telling you how lovely it is—chances are others will feel the same way too.

By opening your garden, you’re giving people a wonderful day out while helping to raise vital funds that genuinely change lives. You’ll also become part of a welcoming community of fellow garden owners and volunteers who share your love of beautiful spaces. When you join us, your garden will be featured in our prestigious yellow Garden Visitor’s Handbook and on our website. Plus, our county volunteer teams are always on hand to offer friendly support.

So, whether your garden is big or small, packed with character, full of charm, or simply a reflection of the care you’ve poured into it—we’d love to hear from you and arrange a visit. Your garden could be the next to inspire visitors and make a real difference.

You can email [email protected], call us on 01483 211535, or contact your local volunteer team who will be able to answer your questions. Or fill in the form below and one of the team will be in touch.

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Read the stories below for a real sense of what opening a garden for the National Garden Scheme is like:

A place for connection, inspiration and community

First time openers Chris and Sally Robinson said: “Our day was made when we were told ‘Your garden is an absolute gem. It’s easy to forget about everything else when you’re here.’ ”

Chris and Sally open Harewood Disley, Cheshire.

Inspiration and cakes!

“It’s lovely to hear visitors comments about the garden, about the cake, and it’s interesting to see what any particular person focuses on, whether it’s a question of a rose variety or the secret ingredient to the Victoria sponge. Finally, it’s knowing they go away happy, enthused and inspired.”

Garden Owner Sunil Patel, 13 Broom Acres, Berkshire.

A wonderful day out

“Opening the allotments for the National Garden Scheme is a wonderful day. Plot holders love to be asked about what they’re growing, and visitors really enjoy the tea and cakes and Ploughman’s lunches”

Cynthia, plot holder at Paddock Allotments & Leisure Gardens, London

Image © Benjamin Mole

A warm welcome

“I can’t believe how warmly we were welcomed into the National Garden Scheme family or the level of support we’ve received. And although heading towards our first opening was really nerve-wracking, it’s one of the most exciting things we’ve ever done.” 

Garden owners Stewart and Louise Woskett, Laurel Cottage, Hertfordshire.

Matched funding

Matched funding can be a brilliant way in which to increase revenue from garden openings. It can be secured relatively easily – just by filling in a form and giving our registered charity number. Matched funding works on the principle that a company/organisation gives a donation to ‘match’ the funds raised for charity at an event, making a donation go twice as far.

To find out more visit our matched funding page