"BREATHTAKING" gardens in the North-East have been named among the top four Favourite British Gardens with collections of English Roses by David Austen, alongside Kew Gardens, R.H.S. Wisley and Bodnant Garden.

The Gardens at Wynyard Hall opened in 2015 and feature a walled garden enclosing more than 3,000 roses planted with a wide range of perennials.

Designed by Alistair Baldwin, the walled garden is full of colour and scent, with meandering paths and water features.

Head gardener, Mark Birtle, is delighted with the recognition. He said: “The people from David Austen are always highly complimentary, but it’s great to be formally recognised as one of the best gardens to visit in the whole country for our collection of English Roses.

“We work really hard to cultivate and maintain such a high standard, but it’s worth it when you stand back and see the results. They are literally breath-taking – especially at this time of year."

Alongside a team of professional gardeners, Mr Birtle works alongside his sons, Leo and Will.

In addition to the walled garden, the collection of gardens include a wild garden, edible garden and woodland walk. The Edible Garden is used to grow vegetables, fruits and herbs, which are used in the estate’s kitchens.