ONGOING

Until 31st October NORTH YORKSHIRE
Take a walk on the wild side with a visit to Plumpton Rocks and discover one of Britain's most charming hidden gems. Lying between Harrogate and Wetherby and oozing with other-worldly atmosphere (an episode of Blake's Seven was filmed here), the Rocks themselves, complete with a Lover's Leap, are breathtaking. As you wander through the 30-acre site of ornamental gardens, created in the 1750s in the “untamed, picturesque” style, keep an eye out for the dam at one end of the lake; designed by John Carr of York in about 1760, it is sadly now in decline but none the less impressive for that. Also look out for a series of benches especially commissioned from the workshops of Ampleforth College to replace the set of Chippendale seats that once graced this both romantic and dramatic estate.
Listed as an English Heritage Grade II site of special historic interest, Plumpton Rocks is open at weekends and on public holidays, between 11am and 6pm, for a small admission fee. Wellingtons advised in bad weather. Plumpton Rocks, Wetherby Road, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, 01289 386360

Until 31st October WEST SUSSEX
Enjoy the glories of an English garden, from spring through to autumn, with one or more visits to High Beeches Gardens, near Handcross. All the classics grow in this 25 acres of woodland and water gardens, from daffodils and bluebells, to azaleas, natural wildflowers and the National Collection of Stewartia Trees. For details of opening times throughout the seasons, call 01444 400589, or email gardens@highbeeches.com

Until April 2008 DARTMOOR
Make the most of the low season and visit the five-acre arboretum and water garden at Stone Lane Gardens, near Chagford this winter. Stars of the show have to be the wild-origin Birch trees, which are shedding their leaves to reveal their stunning barks in all manner of colours, from paper white, pink and yellow to oranges, reds and browns. You can also buy birch or alder trees in pots or bare-root form, from the nursery, ready to grow in your own garden. Open from 2pm to 6pm, seven days a week, adults, £2.50, children/students, £1.50. Call 01647 231311, or visit www.stonelanegardens.com for more details.

DECEMBER

14th and 15th December LONDON
The Botanic Gardens at Kew will be opening late for two evenings before Christmas so you can enter into the festive spirit naturally. Take a winter walk through this fabulous public park and admire some of its finest trees and historic buildings lit up especially for the occasion – the children can also enjoy the carousel, and all must join in the carol singing and eating of festive food. The shop will also be open for Christmas shopping. Open on 14th and 15th December until 9pm; arrive early to avoid disappointment. For more details, call 020 8332 5655, or visit www.kew.org