LOVERS of garden design and cultural history will have an opportunity to experience the enchanting atmosphere of the Gardens of Easton Lodge through the seasons this year in a series of special monthly Sunday openings, starting on April 18.

LOVERS of garden design and cultural history will have an opportunity to experience the enchanting atmosphere of the Gardens of Easton Lodge through the seasons this year in a series of special monthly Sunday openings, starting on April 18.

The gardens, in Little Easton near Great Dunmow, were one of the most important creations of the Edwardian designer Harold Peto. His commission in 1902 came from 'Darling Daisy', the Countess of Warwick, who regularly entertained society guests there including the Prince of Wales before he acceded to the throne as Edward VII.

Visitors to the open days will catch a rare glimpse of a bygone age amid the tranquil atmosphere of the gardens whose full restoration is the long term aim of its Trustees.

The gardens have only recently been re-opened as part of a drive towards returning them to their former glory. The open days will serve to remind garden lovers of what will be possible with the right level of support.

Despite the scale of work still to be undertaken, the loveliness of the gardens continues to shine through. From its origins in 1302 as part of a vast deer park, the 23-acre haven is notable for its natural beauty and ever-changing landscape.

Designed in Italianate style around Warwick House which is set in the grounds, the gardens were maintained until 1950, after which time nature took over. Tantalising glimpses of those designs have been resurfacing since 1993, when the restoration project began. Today's visitors can see Peto's Italian Sunken Garden and the herringbone and cobble courtyard, plus other examples of his work. A small museum in the Dovecote describes their history and heyday in detail.

The once-a-month Sunday openings during 2010 will be on April 18, May 23, June 20, July 18, August 22, September 19 and October 10.

Entry to the Gardens of Easton Lodge costs just �2.50 (children free). Picnics welcome. Home-made refreshments are on sale during opening hours (12noon to 6pm).

Further information is available from the recorded information service on 01371 876979, online at eastonlodge.co.uk or by e-mailing enquiries@eastonlodge.co.uk.

The Gardens of Easton Lodge are located just outside Great Dunmow in Little Easton, off the B184 (Great Dunmow to Saffron Walden road). Follow the brown heritage signs.