Gardens of Easton Lodge to host Apples and Bees event

There will be a buzz at the Gardens of Easton Lodge on Sunday (Sept 13) when the landmark near Great Dunmow hosts an Apples and Bees event.

Visitors will be able to learn about apple varieties – and what can be made from them – from members of the East of England Apple and Orchard Project and can take along their own apples for the experts to identify.

The grade II listed garden's trustees will also be joined by coppicers, a woodturner and a willow weaver as well as representatives of Essex Wildlife Trust and the Woodland Trust.

Angus Drever, chairman of the trustees, said: "It's been particularly wonderful to be able to welcome people back to the gardens after the end of the lockdown. Visitors have loved the space to wander and relax with social distancing arrangements in place to ensure they are safe."

During Sunday's event, fresh produce, honey and plants will be on sale and there will be a jam and jelly tombola stall. As usual, trustees will be serving hot and cold drinks, bacon, hummus and cheese rolls, and home-made cakes from Daisy's kiosk.

Sunday is also a chance to enjoy the 1902 Harold Peto-designed sunken Italian garden in the autumn light while there is still colour in its borders and the lily pond. The kitchen garden is also warmed by its walls and has a vibrant dahlia border as well as herb, fruit and vegetable beds.

The gardens are open from 11am to 5pm with last entry at 4pm. Because of Covid-19, visitor numbers are limited and booking in advance is best to secure a car park space.

Tickets are available through Eventbrite and cost £4.50 (plus booking fee) for adults. Children under 16 and well-behaved dogs on leads get in free. Further information is available from www.eastonlodge.co.uk .