Waltham Place Estate has often been described, as, “the best kept secret in Berkshire”, and that should arouse your curiosity to visit this hidden gem.

What you find here is a little oasis which has much to offer the visitor at all levels. There are beautiful gardens to walk around, which explore the boundaries between gardens and nature. After which you can enjoy the delicious home-made cakes in the tea room and browse in the farm shop.

The estate includes a farm, ornamental and kitchen gardens, with a lake and woodlands. It has been managed organically for over 20 years and has matured into a thriving environment.

Visitors can come and enjoy the gardens on their own or on a guided walk. Head Gardener Beatrice Krehl, takes groups around the gardens. She explains the principles of naturalistic planting used here, for example how the plants are allowed to run their natural cycle and therefore support the wealth of insect and bird life.

With the current interest in food miles, sustainability, and a greener lifestyle, education is an important part of the Waltham offering and there are tours for schools and adult courses on offer too.

The estate holds seasonal walks during the spring and autumn months.

• Daffodils - Saturday 19th March 2011
• Bluebells - Saturday 30th April 2011
• Apples - Saturday 1st October 2011
• Festive - Saturday 10th December 2011

Walks start at 2pm, at the Ormandy Centre and are £7 per person and include drinks and cake.

The tea rooms and farm shop will then be open May-September, Tuesday to Friday 10-4pm.

The gardens can be viewed on Wednesdays on "Walks with the Gardener, 11am & 2pm" or Fridays NGS Day 10-4pm.

Tuesdays and Thursdays are by appointment only!