Here are the limited dates and times to explore North East ‘hidden gem’This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Thornton Hall Gardens, in County Durham. Credit: Thornton Hall Gardens(Image: )
A ‘secret’ garden that unlocks its gates for the public only a few days a year will reopen in spring with a plant fair. Thornton Hall Gardens, in County Durham, is a real find for garden lovers – but they have to be in luck to time a visit just right.
Those who do are in for a treat, with comments on TripAdvisor calling it “a real hidden gem” and “wonderful” with one reviewer adding: “First visit and was absolutely amazed by the gardens”. Another called the spot “one of the best gardens I’ve ever been to” while another reviewer was clearly in agreement, saying: “The most beautiful gardens we have ever visited.”
The review added: “We were so lucky to have visited the gardens, we will definitely be back when it opens again.” That date won’t be coming up until Bank Holiday Monday, May 25, which will be the first of just nine opening days in 2026 leading into the summer.
Describing itself as ‘an oasis of tranquillity’, Thornton Hall Gardens, two miles outside of Darlington, comprises three historic walled gardens in all, linked to a historic Grade l-listed hall, and they include – alongside masses of flowers and a vegetable patch – ‘secretive’ areas with bench seating, statues and sculptures. Its message to upcoming visitors over the summer is to “enjoy the gardens’ flamboyant colour, imaginative plant combinations and vistas and breathe in the wonderful fragrance that fills this magical garden”.
Thornton Hall Gardens, in County Durham. Credit: Thornton Hall Gardens(Image: )
Thornton Hall, built around 1550 by a Ralph Tailbois, is said to be one of the oldest buildings around Darlington. Over the years its walled gardens are thought to have reverted to orchards and then – by the time current owners Mike and Sue Manners moved there in 1989 – they had become used as paddocks for cattle and sheep.
Sue set about transforming the space – at what still is a working farm – and this has developed into the stunning gardens of today, filled with the likes of roses, clematis, delphiniums, peonies and hostas with added extras including the vegetable garden and a wildlife pond. Thornton Hall’s website says: “The garden is well appointed for all to stroll at their leisure”.
Visitors will be able to do that again from May 25 when the reopening will coincide with its annual plant fair which is to feature sales from specialist local nurseries of rare and unusual plants.. Opening hours will be from 10am until 4pm, followed by the same hours on other provisional opening dates.
These are set to be Wednesdays – June 3, 10, 17 and 24 then July 1, 8 and 15 – as well as an additional date on Saturday, June 28. The cost to visit is £10, and £5 for children.
Thornton Hall Gardens, in County Durham. Credit: Thornton Hall Gardens(Image: )
Tickets will be available to buy at the gate so there is no need to book, although early arrival on opening days might be a good idea in view of the limited dates which could mean high demand. Money raised will support the maintenance of the garden as well as help the Great North Air Ambulance and The Sick Children’s Trust charities.
Visitors also will find plants for sale in its courtyard, to the left of the hall, and there is a tea room too. Dogs are not allowed.
For more about the venue see here. Anyone wanting to explore more of what’s in the area can also find Raby Castle nearby, just about a 15-minute drive away.
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