One of our grandest neighbours has to be the Stody Estate, which manages the adjacent farmland and woodland.

However, throughout May, the estate takes on a very different importance, as this is when the gardens (10 minute walk from the cottage) are open to the public.  The gardens were created in the 1930s and are one of the foremost Rhododendron and Azalea gardens in the country, and also incorporate a spectacular Japanese water garden.

The gardens are open every Sunday throughout May, as well as the May Bank Holiday (30th).  If you are planning a self-catering holiday in the spring, check out the Stody Estate Gardens and if you are a fan of country house gardens it should feature on your itinerary!