Visit a beautiful garden with the NGS Open Garden Scheme

The NGS Open Garden Scheme offers a great day out

Now that the weather has finally improved in the UK, we are keen to get out and about. Fresh air and, hopefully, some sunshine does wonders to lift the spirits. I mentioned that we found a lovely National Garden Scheme open garden by chance last week. Now I am leafing through the NGS Open Garden Scheme listings looking for more.

Now in its 90th year, the NGS Open Garden Scheme supports around 3,700 gardening enthusiasts to open their gardens to the public annually. Where ever you live in the UK, you should be able to find a garden or two to visit. Many also sell plants, tea and cakes, so you can make a day of it.

Charity fundraising

The best thing about the NGS Open Garden Scheme is that it raises a lot of money for loads of different charities. Hundreds of thousands of pounds are raised for the Queen’s Nursing Institute, MacMillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Carer’s Trust, Hospice UK, Parkinson’s UK, Perennial,  plus other guest charities.

The benefits of gardens on health

The NGS Open Garden Scheme recently commissioned some research on the benefits of gardens for your health and wellbeing. I have experienced this for myself. Both working in our own garden and visiting some of the beautiful gardens we have been to on our travels prove a great way to unwind.

Respondents reported that gardening benefitted their physical and mental health, kept them mobile and active and was a great way to get fresh air and exercise.

During August 2017, the RGS launched their first ever week dedicated to promoting the positive impact gardens can have on health and wellbeing. All of the gardens taking part opened free of charge for a small, private group of people who would not usually get the opportunity to enjoy a garden, either because of health or social reasons.

Volunteer

There are also lots of opportunities to volunteer with the NGS Open Garden Scheme. If you have a little time, this gives you the chance to meet like minded people and make friends. You could help out at an open garden event or behind the scenes.

If you have a beautiful garden yourself, why not open it up and show it off? You can enjoy chatting to visitors in the knowledge that you are helping to raise money for good causes.

For more information on this great organisation and gardens to visit in your area, go to the NGS Open Garden Scheme website.

Gardener’s World 2 for 1 offer

Whilst we are on the subject of gardens, if you are quick you  might still be able to buy a copy of BBC Gardener’s World magazine. The May issue features its annual 2 for 1 pass. There are hundreds of amazing gardens all around the country that will allow 2 for 1 entry with the pass. We fancy Kew Gardens!

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