Autumn Colours Weekend at Sherborne Castle
This Grade I listed ‘English landscape garden’ was one of Capability Brown’s first commissions and survives largely unaltered. Paths and trails lead you through 42 acres of gardens and pleasure grounds commanding spectacular views of more than 1,000 acres of parkland. Sherborne Castles' grounds and gardens are glorious all year round, but in Autumn the majestic specimen trees surrounding the 50-acre lake, dug in 1753 by Capability Brown, come into their own as their breathtaking fiery colours are reflected in the water. During the Autumn Colours Special Weekend (October 26 – 27), enjoy a reduced entry fee (usually £13) to the gardens (£6.50/children £2.50). There is also a Children’s Autumn Pumpkin Trail (October 26 – November 3) to explore, with clues to solve and prizes to be had, during half term week. Fancy dress encouraged. Opens 10am – 5pm (last entry 4pm). sherbornecastle.com/events
Japanese Garden Tour
Enjoy a guided tour of Kingston Lacy's gorgeous Japanese Garden (October 30, 11am & 2.30pm) and discover how Japanese horticulture techniques are used throughout, as well as admiring the dazzling autumn colours of its acers. Free event is free, but normal admission to the property applies.
nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/kingston-lacy
