The open day at Oteley Estate earlier this month was a huge success, with hundreds buying tickets to access the hidden gardens of Ellesmere that overlook the mere.
On the day £5,000 was raised for the National Garden Scheme, which funds nursing and health charities. The estate has opened its gardens to the public almost every year since the NGS began in 1927 and this year the number of visitors was double the usual amount.
On the day, Mr Robert Mainwaring, owner of the gardens, was presented with an award and sundial for the 40 years he has opened his garden to the scheme.
The day was deemed so successful that the estate has organised another open day on Saturday, May 22.
Clare Mainwaring, part of the family team that run the estate said, “We are absolutely delighted with the brilliant turn out, and huge amount raised for the NGS.
“Visitors enjoyed a fantastic show of colour from the flowering azaleas and rhododendrons. We had local musicians playing while visitors relaxed on the lawn, and tea, coffee and cake was served in the original stable yard, while Moolah served eton mess and local beers and cider from their pop up bar.
“Following the great feedback and turnout, we have decided to do it all again on May 22 from 10am until 3pm. Tickets will be sold on the gate – £5 per adult and kids go free.
“Visitors can spot our striking Highland cattle as they drive through the parkland up to the house. They enter the garden through our original stable yard, and from there they can take in the 10 acres of garden at their leisure, which includes a boathouse, walled garden, tower, swiss cottage and stunning views across the mere.”
The 2,000-acre estate has remained in the same family since the 1500s and has some notable ancestors, including Sir Francis Kynaston, who was acquainted with both James I and Charles I.
The historic estate is now home to two herds of native breeds of British cattle – Beef Shorthorn and Highland, and a small flock of sheep. The estate has recently released its own range of quality beef and lamb boxes, which will be available to purchase at the open day. Alternatively they can be purchased from www.oteley.com where there is also more information about their events.
