Join us this month as we explore some of the many 2 for 1 Gardens ablaze with breath-taking autumn colour
Collector’s item
Knightshayes, near Tiverton, is home to one of the National Trust’s biggest plant collections. Emerging from the Devon countryside, it’s made up of a series of areas, varying from formal topiary gardens to richly planted woodland glades. There’s still plenty to see at this time of year, especially in the walled kitchen garden, where vibrant dahlias offer a last colourful hurrah. But this beautifully maintained garden is not just for show – look out in October for pumpkins and squashes ripening in the low autumn sun.
ENTRY OFFER House and garden: 2 for 1 £14. Single reduced to £7. Open all year – for full details visit nationaltrust. org.uk/knightshayes. Offer not valid on bank holidays.
Acers high
From lime greens and charcoal blacks to burning vermilion, the acer grove at Standen House and Garden, near East Grinstead in West Sussex, has every kind of autumn colour on display. Standen’s series of enclosed garden rooms – including an orchard and kitchen garden – are the perfect places to simply sit and enjoy the calm and quiet of the autumn.
The house itself is in the Arts and Crafts style, including original Morris & Co interiors, so there’s something for everyone.
ENTRY OFFER House and garden: 2 for 1 £14, single reduced to £7. Open all year, visit nationaltrust. org.uk/standen.
Mersey marvel
It’s a surprise to find 500-year-old Speke Hall right on the edge of Liverpool. First built in 1530, this beautifully preserved house is the perfect place to explore over the half-term break. There are loads of fun activities such as the giant maze and zip wire, while older kids can learn about the history of the house. Take the garden path down, through the woods, and out overlooking wide estuary mudflats to spot migratory wildfowl.
ENTRY OFFER House and garden: 2 for 1 £15. Single reduced to £8. Garden: 2 for 1 £10. Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/speke-hall. Offer not valid on bank holiday weekends.
October fest
Visit before the end of the month to witness Drummond Castle Gardens in one last flush of colour – the approach features a mile-long avenue of b
