A Magical Midsummer at Belsay

18 Jun 2013 01:35 PM

On the 21 June English Heritage properties will be opening its garden gates after hours to celebrate magical midsummer with a picnic in glorious grounds steeped in history and splendour.

Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens, located outside of Morpeth in Northumberland, is offering visitors the chance to discover and engage with its authentic Quarry Garden during Midsummer Evening Picnic on Friday 21 June from 7pm and 9.30pm. Following the Midsummer celebrations, visitors can also return for Regency Garden Picnic on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 June 11am to 4.30pm.

Debbie Charleton, Property Supervisor for English Heritage at Belsay said: "Reflecting the current "Costumes from Austen" display of Jane Austen TV and film costumes, a Regency gardener can be found exploring the grounds and explaining the landscaping of Belsay as well as passing on hints and tips to how you can create your own Belsay Garden at home. A lady of the house will also enjoy the garden by taking tea on the lawns - an activity expensively re-assuring for Regency high society. Tea drinking became a popular pastime and afternoon tea became a part of life. Hear the history of Britain's favourite drink, it's benefits to one's health, how it was kept under lock and key, and the intricacies of how a good brew was made.

"The gardens in English Heritage properties are not just places for visitors to explore and enjoy the surroundings, they also tell the story of England through the people who created them. Each garden has its own unique story; a reflection of the rich history of the house or castle they surround or of the desires and aspirations of the person who originally created the garden."

For more information about Belsay, the events or admission prices, please visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/Belsay or call 01661 881636.