National Garden Scheme – Norfolk

Three very interesting gardens are open in October and cannot fail to provide inspiration for all garden owners. Hindringham Hall which has appeared in several garden magazines recently is situated north of Fakenham. The huge and popular gardens at East Ruston Old Vicarage have spectacular containers to die for, and near Norwich is East Carleton Manor which is a garden to be enjoyed by all ages.

Blacksmith Lane, Hindringham, NR21 0QA (10.00-16.00) Adm £10, Chd free.

Light refreshments inc hot soup and sausage rolls as well as teas, in aid of Hindringham Church.

Delightful garden which surrounds a moated Grade II Tudor Manor (not open). Working vegetable garden, Victorian nut walk, formal beds, bog and stream gardens. Wheelchair access. No dogs.

EAST RUSTON OLD VICARAGE, NORWICH NR12 9HN (12.00-5.30) Adm £14.50, Chd £2.

Light Refreshments. Rare and unusual plants abound in these 32 acres, giving all year-round interest. Great variety of different and interesting types of areas which include walled, rose, fruit, vegetable and cutting, as well as topiary and box parterres. Mediterranean and exotic, wonderful water features and spectacularly planted containers. Wheelchair access. No dogs.

10-4, adm £10.00, chd free. Pre-booking essential. Home-made teas and refreshments in aid of Priscilla Bacon Hospice. Partial wheelchair access. No dogs.

A 10-acre garden designed and planted in the 1960s for autumn colour, with many interesting trees and shrubs. Summerhouse with a knot garden, a walled garden with a hydrangea border. Moon gate and Italian garden. Water circulates through smaller ponds into a lake with water lilies.