Belvoir Castle, home of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland, is reopening its 16-acre garden landscape for free access to local people for the first time since the lockdown from Friday 22 May to Sunday 23 May, and each subsequent weekend.

Capability Brown's spectacular 'lost landscape' garden design for the Leicestershire historic attraction will reopen each day from 11am to 4pm.

Visitors must pre-book tickets online before visiting.

Strict social distancing measures are in place in both the castle gardens and the castle car park.

Emma, Duchess of Rutland, says: "Following guidance from the Government concerning the reopening of public spaces and lifting of restrictions on outdoor exercise, we are now inviting our local community to enjoy free access to our beautiful gardens.

"Whilst visitors have been absent from Belvoir, the gardens have burst into life with narcissus, camellias, rhododendrons and magnolias.

"They all look spectacular at the moment and we hope that a walk in the outdoors will be a welcome relief from the stresses of recent times. Although please excuse the weeds and grass verges which have not been mown.

"We continue to prioritise the health and wellbeing of our visitors and staff, therefore public toilets and other shared facilities will remain closed. We will also review our opening based on government advice, as and when required. Admission will be limited so that we can manage social distancing and in the interest of public safety.

The Duchess added: "On behalf of everyone at Belvoir, I would like to thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to welcoming you from a safe distance."

The gardens at Belvoir Castle were designed and landscaped by the 5th Duchess of Rutland, Elizabeth Howard, and regarded as one of the greatest gardens north of London in the 18th century.

Over the years, the gardens have been lovingly cared for with several Duchesses leaving their own mark.

The 11th Duchess is determined to continue redeveloping these beautiful gardens to restore them to their former glory.

Visitors should check Belvoir Castle's website and social media before visiting.

www.belvoircastle.com

www.instagram.com/belvoircastle