ONE of the region’s newest visitor attractions has opened its gates to the public.

For more pictures of the official opening, click here

The official opening of the Walled Gardens, set in the grounds of the Wynyard Hall Hotel, marks the start of a week long programme of events, and included a formal ribbon cutting by hotel owner Sir John Hall.

With the stunning garden having a starting point of more than 3,000 roses of 140 varieties across 150 acres, it is expected to eventually double in size to become the largest of its kind in Britain.

Sir John was joined by Michael Marriot from David Austin Roses, who have supplied the garden’s roses, to carry out the official opening.

About 350 guests bought tickets for the special opening day event were among the first to see the garden, designed by multi-Royal Horticultural Society award-winning designer Alistair Baldwin, which also includes a visitor’s centre, shop and café.

Admission prices – of £5 for adults, £2 for children aged between 5 and 12, £14 for a family pass for two adults and three children and £30 for an annual pass for up to eight visits a year – apply from now on.

For more details and to book a visit go to wynyardhall.co.uk or call 01740-644811.

The Gardens and the Visitor Centre will be open daily between 10am and 5.30pm.