Open days at gardens

OPEN days are being held later this month for people to find out more about South Yorkshire’s only Grade I-listed park and garden.

Wentworth Castle Gardens is run by the National Trust and operates in a unique partnership with Northern College and Barnsley Council.

Responsibility for the site reverted to Barnsley Council during 2017, when the Wentworth Castle and Stainborough Park Heritage Trust – which had been responsible – was unable to make the enterprise financially viable. Open days – which will allow visitors to learn more about its rich history – will take place on September 15, 16 and 17.

Adrian Hughes, who will oversee the garden tours, said: “This is a unique opportunity to see inside a historic house with a fascinating history.

“The estate, which was built on intense rivalry, is now a place of beauty, peace and tranquillity. There are fascinating stories to uncover, plus an endless variety of gentle walking trails, picnic spots, and space for children to explore and play. This special place includes the ruins of Stainborough Castle as well as many other follies and monuments scattered through the landscape.

“In the grounds is Wentworth Castle – once the mansion of the site’s creator and owner, Thomas Wentworth – today it is Northern College, an adult education establishment. The parkland boasts views across the Yorkshire countryside and is home to herds of deer, ancient woodlands and a variety of wildlife that call the estate home. As a volunteer

I’ve fallen in love with the wonderful features of the gardens and parkland, and we’re excited to be able to share this with visitors.”