ROMSEY'S magnificent Sir Harold Hillier Gardens will reopen next week.

The world famous arboretum and gardens, set in over 180 acres of rolling Hampshire countryside between Romsey and Braishfield, has been closed for weeks as the global pandemic took hold and lockdown was enforced.

But members, their children and their guests will be able to return from Monday to see what they have been missing out on as spring turns to summer in the stunning gardens.

Established by the distinguished plantsman Sir Harold Hillier in 1953, the gardens are home to 14 National Collections, over 400 Champion Trees and 42,000 plants from temperate regions.

One of the most important modern plant collections in the world, its many attractions include the Centenary Border, one of the largest Winter Gardens in Europe, the tranquil pond and a bog garden.

Spring is a perfect time to see bulbs burst into flower. Magnolias, Japanese flowering cherries, Azaleas and Rhododendrons are all in their full glory.

In summer, walk down and marvel at one of the longest double borders in the country. At 250m long, the Centenary Border is a kaleidoscope of colour. Look out for the striking Red Hot Pokers, Echinacea and Crocosmia.

The children's play facilities, restaurants, shop and gallery on site will remain closed for now as part of the phased re-opening, which will see visitor numbers capped and pre-booking only in place.

Director Clare Goddard said: "The team have been working hard to ensure the Gardens are safe for both you, our visitors, and our staff, and have adopted a phased reopening plan. Initially we will open with restrictions onsite, and as Government guidance is reviewed, we will be able to both increase capacity and open more of our amenities. Please be patient with us as we put new processes in place.

Despite the necessary restrictions in place, we are looking forward to sharing the beautiful Gardens with you. Thank you once again for your support over these past challenging months and we look forward to seeing you again soon."

Details and tickets at hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/hilliergardens/explorethegardens