SOME of the best private gardens in the region are to open open their gates to visitors over the next few weeks to raise cash for a hospice appeal.

From nine-acre historic walled gardens to tiny townhouse plots, visitors will be able to take a look inside and raise money for St Cuthbert's Hospice, in Durham City.

Backed by The Northern Echo, the hospice is campaigning to raise enough money to open a £3.2m extension at its headquarters in Park House Road.

The extension will be home to a ten-bed inpatient unit offering specialist palliative care for patients with life-threatening illnesses, such as cancer.

The open gardens series starts today, when Crook Hall, a medieval manor house in Sidegate, Durham City, will open its gardens from 11am to 5pm.

Visitors can stroll among the ancient fruit trees and explore the secret walled garden and maze, before trying home-made soup and cream teas.

Admission is £4.50 for adults and £4 for concessions.

Future events include:

* Sunday, July 2 - Croxdale Hall Gardens will be open from 2pm to 5pm. A nine-acre walled garden, featuring an 18th Century orangery, lakes and a rare crinkle crackle wall. Admission £3, no dogs and limited disabled access.

* Sunday, July 9 - The Byres, High Wooley, Stanley Crook, will be open from 2pm to 5.30pm. A half-acre terraced garden, with ponds and bog. Admission by donation, no dogs and disabled access limited.

* Sunday, July 16 - 4 Stockley Grove, Brancepeth, which will be open from 2pm to 5pm. A half-acre wildlife garden, featuring unusual trees and waterfalls. Admission by donation, disabled access limited.

* Sunday, July 16 - 2 St Anne's Court, Castle Chare, Durham City will be open at 2.30pm and 3.30pm. A small lawned garden with beautiful views of cathedral. As access is by electronic gate, visitors are asked to be prompt. Admission by donation, disabled visitors should note there are some steps.

* Sunday, July 30 - Premnagar, Potters Bank, Durham City, will be open from 2pm to 5pm. A medium-sized garden featuring remarkable collection of dahlias. Admission is by donation.

Caroline Broadfoot, fundraising co-ordinator with the hospice, said: "They are all very different, so there is something for everyone.

"Some have very pretty town plots up to quite grand gardens, such as the one at Croxdale Hall.

"It is a perfect opportunity for supporters to help us raise much-needed funds, enjoy a day out and pick up some ideas for their own garden as well."

The hospice's two shops in High Street South Langley Moor are undergoing refurbishment. The clothes shop will re-open on Thursday and the bric-a-brac shop will close at 4pm on Monday and re-open on Tuesday, July 11.