Back to the future

James Cordingley, head gardener at National Trust Dunster Castle in Somerset, tells us about its diverse planting and historical features

The garden at Ash Park in the South Hams, Devon The home of Chris and Cathryn Vanderspar

The garden of Knowle House, East Sussex George Dillistone’s original Arts-and-Crafts design has been lovingly restored and updated with contemporary planting, discovers George Plumptre

What do an enigmatic Caped Crusader, a sopping-wet Mr Darcy and Lord Eddard Stark of Winterfell have in common? Believe it or not, British country houses, says Ben Lerwill, as he set-jets around the countryside

Wearing its heritage on its sleeve, this medieval castle has lived many lives, including a fortified castle, a Jacobean mansion and a comfortable Victorian family home

Three stellar estates in Wales and Staffordshire show how careful restoration is always worth the effort