THE link between two historical and horticultural landmarks has been stengthened.

Major improvements have been carried out to Pinewoods, the link walk between the Valley Gardens and the Royal Horticultural Society's Harlow Carr gardens.

Visitors will now be able to walk between the two gardens, via the Pinewoods.

An information leaflet has also been produced, which is available from local tourist information offices, Harlow Carr and other outlets.

Head of parks and open spaces Patrick Kilburn said: "This gentle walk of just over one-and-a-half miles will take visitors through formal gardens and peaceful woodland."

With the help of the Pinewood Conservation Group, the Army Foundation College and local Rotarians, all-weather footpaths have been laid.

Further improvements will be carried out this summer to increase accessibility for disabled people.

"Both the Valley Gardens and RHS Garden Harlow Carr are undergoing ongoing major improvements and although the Pinewoods is a horticulture feature in its own right, it also provides an important link between the two gardens," said Mr Kilburn.

"Our ultimate plan is to develop such things as a sculpture trail, an arboretum walk and nature trails to identify the various flora and fauna."

The curator at Harlow Carr, Matthew Wilson, said: "Harlow Carr and the Valley Gardens are synonymous with Harrogate, and recognised around the country as gardens of excellence.

"Linking them in this way, by a walk that will become part of the visiting experience in its own right, is a great step forward."