Welcome to july

With its colourful façades, lush gardens and striking views, Portmeirion belongs on the Italian Riviera, but this work of art was built in Wales

Last year, Desert Island Discs presenter Lauren Laverne received a shock cancer diagnosis. In her first inter view since, she tells Sali Hughes how the experience has helped her to find joy in the everyday

AS PART OF OUR 40TH BIRTHDAY CELEBR ATIONS, WE SHOWC A SE THE TECH, TRENDS AND EVENTS TAKING ROOT IN THE WORLD OF GA RDENING THIS SUMMER – AND ANNOUNCE AN EXCITING COLL ABOR ATION WITH HOR ATIO’S GA RDEN AT THE CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW

Designers Monty Don with Jamie Butterworth Contractor Form Plants Plants Form Plants Relocating to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home A feature garden that celebrates how to easily turn our gardens into space

This BBQ side classic is made even tastier with the addition of seasonal asparagus, peas and peppery watercress or rocket. A scattering of lighter Greek salad cheese finishes your dish off with salty

Pick up some top tips and immerse yourself in beauty by paying a visit to gardens across the UK this summer. Here are a few suggestions from AG ’s Sue Bradley