IT is a passion that began 45 years ago and one that has transformed a corner of the country estate on which he lives.

Now, for the first time, Lord Ashbrook is to share his love for rhododendrons with the public during two guided walks around The Grove at Arley Hall and Gardens.

The walks – at £5 per person – are on Saturday, May 14, and Sunday, May 22, starting at 11am and lasting about 90 minutes.

Enthusiasts will be able to wander with Lord Ashbrook as he explains how the collection has grown to more than 400 varieties since it was started in the 1970s.

“I do enjoy talking about rhododendrons so I hope people will enjoy listening,” he said.

“It will be very informal and I hope to pass on some of the knowledge that I have acquired over the years.”

Lord Ashbrook’s passion for rhododendrons began in 1970 soon after his mother, Lady Ashbrook, consulted garden designer James Russell about changes to Arley’s gardens.

Russell spotted potential in an underdeveloped corner called The Grove and left a sketch on the back of an envelope detailing his vision.

“It sparked off something in my mind and within an hour I was down there clearing brambles and nettles,” said Lord Ashbrook.

“I suddenly became smitten with the idea of ornamental trees, shrubs and rhododendrons growing in this area and developing an interesting woodland walk.”

Despite always having an interest in Arley’s gardens, and helping his mother when he was a boy, it was the first time he’d gardened properly.

It was the start of something big as The Grove became a passion for Lord Ashbrook and, when he moved to Arley in 1977, the development of the area gathered pace.

Many native trees were uprooted and beds were planted among areas of mown grass. By 1982 it was ready to be opened to the public.

“I never thought it would become as big as it is now,” he said.

With more than 400 varieties – both species and hybrids – all carefully catalogued, the collection is one of the finest in the North West.

His guided talks will cover the history of the garden, why Arley is perfect for rhododendrons and dip into knowledge he gathered about the plants during trips to the Himalayas and China.

Lord Ashbrook will also briefly discuss the many other varieties of exotic trees and shrubs in The Grove and why they are there.

“I am always making notes about where we can improve things so The Grove provides a better experience for visitors every year,” he said.

To book onto the Rhododendron Walks with Lord Ashbrook go to arleyhallandgardens.com or call 01565 777353 (ex 20).