Those living local to Quarry Bank can make the most of having it right on their doorstep with discounted entry when visiting later in the day.

Until September 1 you can take a stroll through the gardens when it’s a little quieter or relax with a book surrounded by the summer blooms – the perfect way to wind down from the day. Local visitors to the National Trust property will be able to pop in and enjoy the end of the day with a reduced entry price of £10 from 3.30pm daily (children go free).

With the lighter and warmer afternoons, the gardens at Quarry Bank are full of drama with multiple vantage points to take in the views as the paths climb up from the valley bottom passing by caves, cliffs, heritage trees and summer blooms.

In the kitchen garden visitors can see the restored glasshouse and back sheds where an array of exotic plants and fruits are grown.

There are lots of vegetables coming through this summer, with potatoes beginning to show and beans climbing up poles. Onions, garlic and runner beans are also ripening and the strawberries are on their way.

Quarry Bank general manager, Jo Hudson said: “We’re trialling this as an opportunity for people, especially those on our doorstep, to experience Quarry Bank in the afternoon when it’s a bit quieter, and to see what sort of response we get.

"We hope that by introducing this opportunity, more people will be able get outside and make the most of summer. It’s the perfect time to visit Quarry Bank, the gardens look spectacular, and it’s the ideal place to unwind at the end of the day.”

The gardens also make a perfect retreat for wildlife lovers with damselflies, butterfly’s, woodpeckers and jays making regular appearances in the afternoons.

Those eagle-eyed visitors could also spot a Common Blue Butterfly; uncommon in the local area but sightings have been made at Quarry Bank.

Visitors can take a stroll through the mill meadow or formal gardens to enjoy the buzz of the bees, take in the scents of seasonal flowers and make the most of the summer sun. Keen gardeners and those inspired by the displays at Quarry Bank can also pick up plants to take home for their own garden.

Late entry pricing at Quarry Bank is taking place now until September 1, 2019.

Visitors will be able to pay £10 entry from 3.30pm, whilst children go free (with last entry being at 4.30pm and a 5pm close).

Parking in the Quarry Bank visitor car park is free to all visitors, and for those with limited mobility, Tramper vehicles and wheelchairs can be borrowed from the Welcome Building (please book in advance).

There is also a complimentary buggy service.

For those with more time, Quarry Bank is open daily throughout the summer from 10.30am – 5pm.