APPETISERS
Inspiration, bite-size news, reviews and great stuff to do
SPRING STROLLS
As you venture out on bracing walks, keeping an eye out to see whether the wild garlic has arrived, spring suddenly feels possible in March, doesn’t it?
This Mother’s Day (or any day), plan a trip to Barnsdale gardens in Oakham, Rutland – there’s something for every season, from the Woodland Walk to fragrant spring blossoms in the Japanese Garden (pictured) and, in summer, glorious blooms in the Rose Garden. You can buy plants at the shop and have a bite to eat too. barnsdalegardens.co.uk
For the Easter trails, Shaun the Sheep and pals will be hiding in Tatton Park, Cheshire, from 29 March. Visit over the Easter weekend to get a chocolatey reward for finding the sheep in the 50-acre gardens. tattonpark.org.uk/visit
In Kent, amble along the stream around Kearsney Abbey and enjoy an ice cream or hot chocolate. It’s a great wild garlic spot in spring. kearsneyparks.co.uk
For more seasonal stroll-spiration, there are more than 195 National Trust Easter trails to choose from across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/whats-on
SEASONAL FOOD
At their best Cauliflower, kale, leeks, purple sprouting broccoli, salsify, spinach, spring greens, spring onions, swede, rhubarb (forced)