ONE of the region’s most glorious gardens is throwing its gates open for the first time this season with an unscheduled viewing on Wednesday.

Thornton Hall, on Staindrop Road just outside Darlington, is putting in the extra date as the lockdown eases and in a bid to prevent the other scheduled open days becoming too crowded.

“Because of the weather, the garden is at present at least a week ahead of normal so Wednesday would be a great time to visit - especially if you are a peony fan,” said Sue Manners, who has been tending the garden for 30 years.

Thornton Hall, which is two miles outside Darlington, is a Grade I listed building dating from 1550, but over the centuries its formal gardens got lost. Sue, though, started rediscovering them as a hobby which, as she says, got rather out of hand.

Now she opens the gardens to the public to raise money for charities.

“In these difficult times, it is good to see that nature has not been affected by the coronavirus and our gardens continue to mature,” she said, “and they offer a beautiful place of peace and tranquillity.

“They are extremely floriferous at present with colour from irises, peonies, lupins, roses and many more shrubs and perennials. Plus, the new vegetable garden is looking very productive and the annual meadow is always a favourite.”

The pandemic is presenting challenges for this year’s open days. Visitors will be expected to follow social distancing guidance. Entrance is £7, and Sue is requesting that people bring the exact money as there is no card machine. The gardens open at 10am, with the morning usually being the busiest time, so she is hoping some visitors can stagger their arrival times for later – the gardens close at 4pm.

This Wednesday is the only day this season when refreshments will not be available. On other days, homemade cakes, tea, coffee and cold drinks will be served outside.

The other opening dates are Wednesdays in June – 10, 17 and 24 – and in July – 1,8 and 15 – plus Sunday, July 5.

For people with particular concerns about shielding, Sue may be able to reserve slots at 9am and 3.30pm. People interested in reservations should email info@thorntonhallgardens.co.uk. More details are available on the website, thorntonhallgardens.co.uk