The historic gardens of Highnam Court, near Gloucester, are being opened up to the public on Sunday (September 5) under the National Garden Scheme.

Forty acres of Victorian landscaped gardens surrounding the magnificent Grade I house (not open) were originally set out by accomplished artist, musician and art collector Thomas Gambier Parry who bought the Highnam Estate in 1838.

He started to lay out his garden in 1840, and by 1874 it rivalled any in the UK. Unfortunately since the turn of the last century almost nothing had been done in the gardens. Consequently when the process of restoration started in 1994 the gardens were totally overgrown.

During the last 25 years, since Roger Head has been the owner, the gardens have been totally and lovingly restored to their former glory, with many new additions being made to complement and enhance the original design.

The garden features lakes, shrubberies and listed Pulhamite water gardens with grottos and fernery, along with woodland areas.

There is an extensive one-acre rose garden and many features, including numerous wood carvings.

The gardens are open from 11am to 4.30pm on Sunday and admission is £5 for adults with children under 16 free. Light refreshments will be available.