BEAUTIFUL gardens across the region are opening their gates to the public as part of a national initiative.

This month heralds the return of the popular Open Gardens event which encourages residents to invite the public into their gardens to enjoy the floral displays.

From stately homes to cottage gardens and themed-displays, there are a host of gardens to enjoy and in some instances, whole villages take part.

This includes the pretty village of Mickley, near Ripon, where more than 20 gardens will be open on Sunday, June 23.

Deborah Hayward, a member of the organising committee, said: “The village boasts some truly spectacular gardens and June is a great time to see them.

“We have something to delight and inspire everyone, so we hope that as many people as possible will pay us a visit. The event happens only once every two years, so this is an opportunity not to be missed.”

In Richmond, the Walled Garden, at 1a Cravengate will be open from 6pm to 9.30pm on June 21, with music from The Mowbray String Quartet and artist Judi Allinson painting in the garden.

Admission is £5 and proceeds go to Original Richmond in Bloom.