A NORTH Yorkshire stately home has completely renovated its double herbaceous border – already one of the longest in the country – in a four-year project.

Gardens at Newby Hall, near Boroughbridge, measure up at 172m and although they are enjoyed by visitors every year, gardeners felt the borders had lost cohesion and needed a face-lift.

Garden curator Lucinda Compton manages the 25 acres of formal gardens, which are divided into rooms laid out either side of the double border which runs to the 17th century house.

A spokeswoman for Newby Hall said: “Large clumps of perennials though performing well enough, were ready to be lifted and divided, and the border as a whole had lost cohesion, providing the perfect opportunity to completely overhaul the planting.

“Softer pastels are strengthened by vibrant lilacs, magenta pink, lime green, claret and silver, all colours reflected in the trees beyond.”

After two years of planning and designing, work began in autumn 2013, led by head gardener Mark Jackson, and his team of five full time gardeners and nine volunteers.

Phase two is well underway, with the completely renovated herbaceous border due to be ready for the garden opening on April 1.