ONE of Cheshire’s finest gardens is set to reveal some hidden secrets next month.

Arley Hall and Gardens, near Knutsford, is opening a month earlier than usual to give the public a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to get the gardens ready for the public.

“Normally people don’t see the garden at this time of year before it bursts into life, but there is still plenty to see,” said head gardener Gordon Baillie.

“What is revealed is the skeleton of the garden, which is beautiful in itself.”

Arley’s award-winning gardens are known across the world and attract thousands of visitors every year.

Among the attractions are kitchen and walled gardens, the double herbaceous border and the Grove.

Gordon said anyone visiting Arley in March would see him and his team putting the finishing touches to the garden and preparing the borders for spring.

“We will be more than happy to answer any questions the public might have about their own gardens to help them through one of the most important times of the year,” he said.

Arley opens on Saturday, March 1, and entry during March will be half price, with opening hours of 11am to 4pm every day.

The hall will also open on Tuesdays and Sundays from noon until 5pm.

For more details visit arleyhallandgardens.com.