Walks will explore heritage of estate

The features and history of Ashford’s Godinton Estate will be outlined to visitors in three guided walks this year. They are being led by estate manager Nick Sandford, with participants taking in the beautiful landscape while hearing about the heritage and day to day running of the park.

The walks, lasting approximately an hour, with lots of stops, will finish with refreshments in the venue’s newly renovated stables.

The three planned walks through the wider estate will take in the woodland, river, wildlife, flora and fauna, and information about the work carried out behind the scenes to care for the ancient park and estate.

Guide Mr Sandford will share the knowledge he has gained managing the estate for more than 18 years.

The walks are being held on Friday, April 21, Friday, September 22 and Wednesday, November 1.

Mr Sandford said: “The walks will be informal and I will aim to show visitors different aspects of running a historic estate.

“While each walk is loosely themed I will be happy to be directed by people’s interest and questions. It will be a chance to explore parts of the grounds away from the public footpaths. “

Groups will be kept small and booking is essential. The cost is £10 per person.

The gardens are open daily until November 1, 1pm to 6pm.

The house is open to the public for tours on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays from 1pm, with the last tour at 4pm.

For more information visit www. godintonhouse.co.uk or call 01233 643854.

Picture: Martin Fagg Godinton Estate manager Nick Sandford leads visitors on a tour