My mam is thinking about sprucing up the garden a bit. For some inspiration we thought we'd take a little trip to Birkheads Secret Gardens and Nursery. When we pulled up it was such a contrast from when we had visited in the summer time last year. The sky was a dull grey, drizzling and most of the glorious flowers were nowhere to be seen. 

My brother came too, the owner let him in for free which was really nice of him. He warned us about the slippy walkways too. (I'm so pleased he did, we were slipping and sliding every where.)

Despite the lack of flowers you could still get a glimpse of the gardens and what they were trying to achieve with them. Plus the amount of autumn colours everywhere more then made up for it in my eyes.

The Japanese garden (known as the Meditation Retreat) was once again my favourite. I just can't help it, as soon as you enter through the little archway it's like you've been transported to another place entirely.

Poppy was thinking about attempting the bridge, but seriously it was so slippy. I put one foot on it and nearly ended up in the water.

What I love most about Birkheads is their attention to detail. Down to the specific trees and plants they use to create a mood or replicate a certain theme. Or the added elements like the little bridge and the lanterns and ornaments dotted about. All it needed was a bit of wind rattling the chimes and we could have been anywhere but the North East countryside.

Birkeads are just starting to reopen now for the season, we caught them right at the beginning, and with it still being so cold outside it wasn't as amazing as it would be on a lovely sunny day with the bees and butterflies about.

They've just built a new sitting area too, which I'm sure will be filled with people come a few months time. It really is such a wonderful place to visit. They have a little cafe too, and on the right day there really isn't anything better then sitting with a drink and watching the beautiful gardens. 

I know I'll definitely return.

Have any of you been to Birkheads before?