Local gardens that featured in the BBC's Gardeners' World programme have turned 40.

Barnsdale Gardens, located just off the A606 bypass that runs along the northern shore of Rutland Water, is a popular attraction for Rutland residents and tourists travelling to the area - often inspired to visit by the creator of the gardens, Geoff Hamilton.

Geoff Hamilton was a regular presenter on BBC's Gardeners' World, and has left quite the legacy in Barnsdale Gardens.

Geoff presented many episodes of the ongoing TV programme from the local gardens in the 1980s and 1990s, but had been a popular regular member of the on-air team since 1979.

Geoff unexpectedly passed away in 1996 following a heart attack.

However, his son Nick has continued his legacy, caring for the impressive gardens in Geoff's stead, opening them to the public in 1997.

Barnsdale Gardens are open to the public all year round. Image credit: Barnsdale Gardens.

The gardens saw an influx of visitors when they were first opened, many of whom had only seen the gardens through the television screen prior to this.

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They remain popular today and, as well as hosting visitors all year round, hold a range of regular, family friendly events on site.

And with thirty eight individual gardens in an eight-acre site, there's plenty to see and do at Barnsdale Gardens.

The team said: "Our inspiring range of garden styles and planting schemes have been referred to as 'a theme park for gardeners'. However, you'll get plenty of opportunity to rest, contemplate and learn alongside all the excitement when you visit us.

"Whether you are a keen gardener, an armchair gardener or a visitor looking for a wonderful day out with a great lunch in our tea rooms, then Barnsdale Gardens is for you!"

Congratulations to Nick and the team on celebrating this impressive milestone.

Find out more about Barnsdale Gardens here.

Enjoy 38 differetn gardens in Barnsdale, just north of Rutland Water. Image credit: Barnsdale Gardens.

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