Q // I’ve a new-found passion for touring UK gardens. Is there somewhere unusual I should try?

From stately home estates to private gardens and national parks, a growing crop of travellers are discovering the UK’s enviable collection of beautifully planted places. Traditionally the realm of foreign visitors, organised itineraries geared to gardenloving locals have taken o in recent months. Chief among these, Sisley Garden Tours is now oering three- and four-night breaks with exclusive access and out-of-hours tours around England’s most exquisitely designed green spaces.

Guided group tours (eight to 12 people) include explorations of the gardens of Thomas Hardy’s

Wessex, the Yorkshire landscaping of Tom Stuart-Smith at Mount St John, walled gardens in the Wye Valley, the subtropical gardens of the Isles of Scilly’s Tresco Abbey, and Chelsea Flower Show-winning gardens in the Cotswolds. Chat to owners, head gardeners and designers to gain insights into plant combinations, landscaping and techniques, from training roses to Japanese cloud pruning.

Prices start at £2,100 per person, based on two sharing, including three nights’ boutique hotel accommodation, most meals, private transport and all garden visits. sisley.co.uk