Visit The Secret gardens and Toad Hole Cottage in Norfolk

Located in How Hill hamlet, in the heart of Norfolk Broads National Park, the How Hill Trust was established by the original owner of the How Hill house, Edward Thomas Boardman in the early 1920s, and established as an educational charity in 1984. Overlooking beautiful gardens, woodlands and the river Ant, it is the epitome of the British countryside and a great place to escape the city.

There are two alluring gardens to relax in and explore at How Hill. Take a walk around the Secret Garden, you’ll find a range of beautiful trees, from native trees to exotic species coming from around the world. As summer approaches, the azaleas and rhododendrons are spectacular, making May and June a fantastic time to visit or make your trip in October as the vibrant autumn colours begin to sweep around the garden.

The formal house gardens surrounding the house are just as beautiful, with a charming combination of lawned and wild grass areas and borders made up of a fantastic array of trees and shrubs. From the walled, long border and square gardens, to the white garden and the recently planted rose garden, gardeners and wildlife lovers alike will be in their element.

While at How Hill, make sure you visit the charming Toad Hole, a tiny cottage once lived in by Marshman – a whole Victorian family lived here at one point. Cap off your visit with a delicious selection of snacks and beverages at the Tea House, offering freshly ground fair trade coffee, cakes and pastries.

• The Secret Gardens are open every day to the public and entry is free, although donations are welcomed by the How Hill Trust Charity.
• Make sure to keep an eye on their events page here.
• The car park is available directly behind the house and a public car park down the road from How Hill House.