Every plant in the garden is gearing up to make the most of the summer and there is no better way to appreciate the colourful blooms and luscious green foliage than to visit the Ulster Gardens Scheme’s fabulous array of open gardens.

On Sunday 26 June, Colleen and Nick Lowry, Blessingbourne Estate, Murley Road, Fivemiletown, BT75 0QS are opening their garden from 2pm to 5pm, on behalf of the National Trust, Northern Ireland’s largest conservation charity.

‘Blessingbourne Country Estate where the Manor House majestically overlooks Lough Fadda’. This tranquil location is complimented by a back drop of mature woodlands and delightful gardens featuring a terrace, lawns and borders with sunken garden. There are large mature Yew trees and Holm oak standing at the front of the house. Learn about the rich historical past of the estate and view the memory garden currently being developed to commemorate the American Army who were based at Blessingbourne during the Second World War.

Take a walk around the 4km walking trails, discover the remnants of Mary Montgomery’s Rock Garden and beautiful Rhododendron walk. The garden is partially suitable for wheelchairs.

Location: From Belfast take the M1 and continue onto A4. At Ballygawley roundabout continue on A4 towards Enniskillen. Go through Augher and Clogher and enter Fivemiletown. At roundabout turn right onto Murley Road, signposted Fintona B122 and Omagh. Stay on Murley Road (B122) and look for Ulster Gardens Scheme signs.

From Maguiresbridge take A4 and enter Fivemiletown. Follow signs for Clogher and Belfast A4. At T junction turn left onto Murley Road. Follow Ulster Gardens Scheme signs.

Enjoy a summer’s day wandering around other people’s secret paradises and pick up a few tips for your own garden. While you are there buy some plants and relax with a refreshing cup of tea.

The organising committee is grateful to all the garden owners and very much appreciates all the hard work that goes into preparing the gardens. All funds raised by the Ulster Gardens Scheme are used for work in National Trust gardens in Northern Ireland.

Full details of open gardens are in the Ulster Gardens Scheme leaflet available from National Trust Regional Office, contact 028 9751 0721 or visit www.ulstergardensscheme.org.uk

Admission £3