National Garden Scheme open day for charity at Hatfield Park

Since its foundation in 1927, the National Garden Scheme has donated over £55 million to nominated beneficiaries.

Daffodils at Hatfield House last spring. (Image: Alan Davies)

Once again Hatfield Park will be supporting the NGS by opening the West Gardens of Hatfield House on Saturday, March 16 — two weeks ahead of the official 2024 visitor season.

The Hertfordshire gardens will be open from 11am to 4pm, and tickets cost £12 for adults and £6 for children.

The takings from the day will be split between the National Garden Scheme and a charity of Lady Salisbury’s choosing.

Visitors can enjoy the spring bulbs in the lime walk, sundial garden and view the famous Old Palace garden, childhood home of Queen Elizabeth I.

The Old Palace at Hatfield House. (Image: Alan Davies)

The adjoining woodland garden is at its best in the spring with masses of naturalised daffodils and bluebells.

For further information about the National Garden Scheme visit www.ngs.org.uk or contact hello@ngs.org.uk or 01483 211535.

Beautifully designed gifts, jewellery, toys and much more can be found in the Stable Yard shops. Visitors can also enjoy relaxing at the Coach House Kitchen Restaurant, which serves a variety of delicious foods throughout the day.

There is a good route for wheelchairs around the West Garden and a plan can be picked up at the garden kiosk.

The visitor season of the West Garden at Hatfield House begins on March 30, 2024.

Those attending the NGS Gardens Open Day for charity two weeks earlier on March 16 in a vehicle should enter via George’s Gate for the main visitors car park. Parking is free. 

Pedestrians will be able to enter on foot or via public transport through the Fore Street Gate. 

Hatfield House's website states: "First approach the gate opposite Hatfield Train Station, here they will be able to direct you to our Fore Street Gate."

Tickets must be purchased in advance.