CHOICE LOCATIONS

1 Abbotsford

in the Scottish Borders, former residence of Sir Walter Scott, is home to many garden species, common woodland birds and red squirrels.

2 St James’ Park,

along the Mall in central London, is the oldest of the eight royal parks. In spring, look for drumming great spotted woodpeckers and displaying ducks, and you can’t miss the ring-necked parakeets.

3 Stourhead

in Wiltshire is famous for its landscaped hills and water features, framing a fabulous collection of trees and shrubs. This National Trust estate can be excellent for wildlife (but avoid peak times).

4 Tresco Abbey Garden,

Isles of Scilly, is a sub-tropical garden likened to a perennial Kew without the glass. Spring here arrives early, so expect plenty of insect life. It is also home to introduced red squirrels.

5 Bodnant Gardens

in North Wales, managed by the National Trust, is full of plants collected by Victorian explorers. Great for woodland birds, including (if you’re very lucky and visit early or late in the day) hawfinch.