Harwich Secret Gardens open for the public to explore at weekend

The Harwich Secret Gardens event is returning to the town for the ninth year running tomorrow and Sunday.

A total of 24 different gardens will be opening in old Harwich between 11am and 4pm for the annual event.

A spokesman for the popular annual open gardens said: “Harwich is an old town with house fronts to the street, gardens and yards often hidden from view.

“Harwich Secret Gardens will have a very large number of hidden gardens and courtyards open, with some new to the scheme and some old ones returning.

“All the gardens are easily reachable on foot.”

During the event there will be teas and coffees provided at St Nicholas’ Church, in Church Street.

Last year about 30 gardens were open to the public and more than 500 brochures were sold.

Jackie Denton, secretary for Harwich Secret Gardens, said: “The group raises money for local good causes and charities and has raised over £16,450 sharing money with the community and planting a tree each year in Harwich.

“This year there are 24 secret gardens, courtyards and roof gardens open in Harwich, all within easy walking distance of each other.

“This year we have three new gardens.

“The list of open gardens changes each year and that helps to give some gardeners a break and maintains interest in the event.”

She added: “There is an underlying purpose to our members’ generously opening their gardens to the public.”

All profits apart from the annual tree planting programme are used to benefit the local organisations both voluntary and part of larger groups.

Tickets cost £5 per person to gain entry into all of the gardens.

Accompanied children are free.

Entry brochures are available from the Halfpenny Pier visitors centre, St. Nicholas’ Church and Deli 141, in Dovercourt High Street up until the days of the event.

The total number of gardens open may vary from day to day.

To find out more about the event call Jackie on 01255 502 925 or email dentonjackie.jd@gmail.com.