On Sunday, May 18th, four of Monmouth’s historic town gardens are opening from 11.30am to 5.30pm under the banner of Monmouth Open Garden and as part of the NGS (National Gardens Scheme) in aid of NGS charities, including Marie Curie, MacMillian Cancer Support as well as charities which support gardens and gardeners.

The starting point for visiting all the open gardens is Monnow Street Car Park, which is opposite the Chippenham Court flats on Blestium Street. The post code is NP25 3UZ and What3words are rejoin. shape. hindering. There will be a welcome stand in the Monnow Street Car Park with information and maps.

The access to St. John’s, Cornwall House and the Nelson Gardeng is from the Monnow Street car park.

The Nelson Garden dates back to Roman times and as the name suggests has links with Lord Nelson who visited Monmouth several times with Lady Hamilton. St. Johns is a charming walled garden which has undergone extensive restoration with a sunken central lawn and deep herbaceous borders. Cornwall House has a beautiful walled flower garden as well as a walled very productive kitchen garden, both dating from the 18th century.

North Parade House is just a short walk away. It has a surprisingly large and secluded wall garden with mature specimen trees, herbaceous borders and a kitchen garden.

Entrance to all four gardens is only £10 and is free for children. No advance booking is needed – just buy your ticket at the first garden you visit. There will be signage throughout Monmouth to the gardens for those on foot.

With home made teas at both North Parade House and St. John’s and a plant sale at the Nelson Garden, Monmouth Open Gardens on Sunday, May 18th will be a great day out for the whole family.