The virtual tours helping to inspire budding gardeners across the south

  • Meridian
Riverhill Himalayan Garden was first planted in 1840 Credit: ITV Meridian

As garden centres reopen today, gardeners will no doubt be keen to get planting again, though many of the region's most beautiful and historic gardens still remain closed to visitors.

Last year, the Open Gardens Scheme by the NGS raised £4million for nursing charities. This year, the gardens in the famous yellow book are being brought to life in virtual tours instead - and still hoping to provide inspiration budding growers.

Riverhill Himalayan Garden was first planted in 1840 Credit: ITV Meridian

Saturated with spectacular rhododendrons and azaleas Riverhill Himalayan Garden was first planted in 1840. It's been home to the Rogers Family ever since.

In 2009 Ed Rogers and his wife Sarah embarked on a restoration project that continues to this day. This is one of the founding gardens of the National Garden scheme which since 1927 has raised millions of pounds for charity.

This year, you can still visit virtually through the charity's website .

  • Sarah and Ed Rogers

Ed and Sarah have spent the last ten years restoring the 12 acres of gardens and introducing new elements like this maze.

Ed and Sarah developed the maze as part of a the restoration project Credit: ITV Meridian
The maze was planted as part of a restoration project at the gardens Credit: ITV Meridian
Part of the Riverhill gardens Credit: ITV Meridian
The rose wall was restored after it completely collapsed Credit: ITV Meridian

Opening gardens like Riverhill raised £4million for the NGS last year.

They won't touch that in 2020 but there's still some spring colour to see to liven up lockdown.