Nine National Trust spring gardens to visit in the North West

From drifts to daffodils to blossom-filled orchards, the change in season brings a steady stream of colour through March, April and May.

Here are nine National Trust gardens near you where spring is beginning to unfold.

Dunham Massey, Altrincham

Daffodils spread across the parkland at Dunham Massey in early spring, creating a wide stretch of yellow around the estate.

Later in the season, tulips line the canal walkway in shades of orange and purple.

Discover Bluebell Mound, where the ground beneath the beech trees is carpeted with a sea of stunning blue hues.

There is also a kitchen garden where wigwams are raised to support climbing sweet peas and beans, while early herbs such as chives, thyme and rosemary begin to flourish.

Dunham Massey (Image: Tim Edwards)

Quarry Bank, Wilmslow

Planting schemes at Quarry Bank shift gradually through the season.

In May, the peony and iris border in the upper garden becomes a focal point as it comes into flower.

People can take in the far-reaching views from the south end of the Walled Garden.

From here you will see swathes of Rhododendron, the hot pink of Camelia and the opulent flowers of the Magnolia.

The Wisteria on the Mill Manager’s house makes for a lovely photo opportunity.

Quarry Bank (Image: Annapurna Mellor)

Lyme, Stockport

At Lyme, daffodils bloom around the lake with views back towards the Regency house.

As spring progresses, rhododendrons begin to flower across the garden.

It’s even-weather proof, with a Grade II listed orangery, to have a wander round.

Speke Hall, Liverpool

Known as one of the best places in Merseyside and the North West to see bluebells, Speke Hall is home to thousands of bluebells described as a “blue paradise”.

Crocuses appear on the south lawn at Speke Hall early in the season, followed by blossom in the orchard.

In April and May, you can wander through the flat woodland paths beside carpets of delicate bluebells, which is a must-see sight.

Speke Hall (Image: Paul Harris)

Rufford Old Hall, Ormskirk

You’ll find bluebells at Rufford Old Hall too.

The winding paths and footbridges help you get up close to the small flowers for that perfect picture.

In the rose garden, wisteria begins to flower, attracting pollinating insects.

Today, Rufford’s Orchard contains several varieties of blossoming apple and pear trees, including Keswick Codlin, Duke of Devonshire, Lemon Pippin and Bramley’s Seedling, to name but a few.

Little Moreton Hall, Congleton

Spring bulbs, including snowdrops, crocuses, daffodils and tulips, appear around the moat at Little Moreton Hall.

The moat dates back to the Middle Ages and was likely a status symbol to prove how well the Moretons had done for themselves. 

Set against the black and white Tudor timber-framed building, it can offer picturesque views.

Little Moreton Hall (Image: Annapurna Mellor)

Hare Hill, Macclesfield

At Hare Hill, bulbs and early perennials emerge in March, with daffodils and crocuses lining the carriageway.

The rockery also begins to fill with colour.

Enjoy a stroll or take a seat on one of the benches, read a book and listen to the birdsong.   

It was originally created for vegetables and cut flowers, but became a plantsman’s garden during the later years of Colonel Brocklehurst’s life. 

Castlefield Viaduct, Manchester

Tulips, narcissus and cherry blossom feature at Castlefield Viaduct during spring, bringing seasonal planting to the elevated former railway line.

Castlefield Viaduct (Image: Annapurna Mellor)

Gawthorpe Hall, Padiham

In Gawthorpe Hall’s walled garden, you can walk through the wildflower meadow as it begins to grow through spring.

Providing food and shelter for pollinating insects and wildlife.

You can also look up to see the cherry trees come into blossom in April.