Frequently Asked Questions
How long have the gardens been established?
The gardens have been open to the public since 1987
Who supplies the plants for the garden & nursery?
We grow most of the plants ourselves except seasonal bedding bought in for Red Cross Days early in the year. As we’re sited 700ft above sea level and exposed in all directions we’ve dedicated ourselves to plants which grow well in the gardens and we feel are garden worthy.
When is the garden open?
The gardens, nursery and coffee shop are open March-October,Tuesday-Sunday March-October, 10am-5pm other visits are available for groups by appt. The garden attracts a steady stream of visitors seeking inspiration and looking for unusual good hardy plants.
I would love to work here, do you take volunteers?
We have recently set up a volunteer group for anyone who wants to spend a few hours a week in wonderful surroundings. Practical Training is given
Do you still have time to design gardens?
Yes, but only 10 or 12 a year, details on our Gardens Page
Do issue gift vouchers?
Yes, we have picture vouchers for £5, £10 & £15 which can be redeemed against season tickets, plants or artefacts.
Are the gardens easy to find?
Leave the A1 m/way onto A692 or A693 then onto A6076 Follow the brown tourist signs between the Causey Arch & Tanfield Steam Railway. See Location page
Are Walkers & Cyclists welcome & what about public transport?
Yes and we can now be reached on public transport look on our location page for detailed directions. Postcode NE16 5EL Map Ref NZ220 569
Do you have a coffee shop?
Yes, selling hot & cold drinks, freshly made sandwiches, tray bakes & gorgeous gateaux
How big is the garden?
The gardens are part of a 3 acre site which is beautifully located in rural Gateshead. The formal gardens are quite extensively cultivated and the small meadow area and miniarboretum are heavily underplanted with spring bulbs. The paths are mostly mown grass or gravel.
What about wheelchair access?
The coffee shop, nursery, Topiary garden & Terrace are easily accessible, the Secret gardens are on a sloping site and have a lot of different surfaces and levels so are not ideal, we’re working on accessibility. We have a separate parking entrance for wheelchair users on level ground, please ring for directions.
What is the best time to see the gardens?
It depends on your own interests, each year new projects are undertaken and new planting schemes added. The garden is always interesting and needs to be visited several times each year as the seasons change. Our season ticket is very well used by people living within a radius of 20 miles. £9.50 per person per year Normal admission £3.50
Do you supply plants mail order?
Only from October until February, we’re restricted to bulbs which are dormant and pack well so they’re received in guaranteed good condition. Sorry we’re unable to supply mail order the rest of the year as we just haven’t got the time. Visitors to the gardens are always welcome and the nursery is full of plants which can be bought & enjoyed.
See our seasonal list of mail order bulbs in October under WHATS NEW
Do you take card payments?
Yes all major debit credit cards