The House and Gardens of Polesden Lacey are set amongst the rolling Surrey hills with the main lawn sloping away from the house, offering wonderful views to the fields across the valley.

The garden has two distinct areas, the Formal Gardens for those who enjoy plants and flowers and the Pleasure, or Woodland gardens for those who enjoy a good country walk or picnic at any time to year.

The Formal Gardens include the walled Rose Garden where the wonderfully colourful beds are bordered by box and lavender hedges. 

Although this lovely garden can be enjoyed all summer it is quite spectacular in June when all the roses are in peak flower and their heady perfume fills the air.

On the far side of the rose garden are several other formal gardens including the lavender garden and a cut flower garden providing the house with fresh flowers all summer. 

The long, double herbaceous borders are a delight and have been planted to deliver abundant colour for most of the year.

Follow the steps down to the croquet lawn where courts can be hired mid-week in early summer - ring the gardens for details. 

If you haven't time for a game of croquet then stop a minute and enjoy the view, before visiting the rockery which is quite small but includes some interesting plants. 

Alternatively continue on to the end of the formal gardens and over the thatched bridge into the new kitchen garden.

The 'Pleasure Gardens' are woodland gardens and provide four signposted walks around the estate. A map of this area can be purchased for a small sum at the entrance. 

It is a great place to walk if you are bringing your dog, but check which areas it will need to be kept on a lead. 

This part of the garden is also great for picnics, ball games and just lazing in the sunshine making daisy chains.

Polesden Lacey is more than just a garden and for those who are interested in historical buildings it contains some interesting features and paintings. 

During the Edwardian era, its owner Mrs Greville would regularly entertain Royalty and Foreign Ambassadors; her guests included King Edward VII who was a regular visitor.

Polesden Lacey is perfect for those who love gardens but equally ideal for those who love to ramble in the countryside. 

And as you would expect of a National Trust property, it is very well maintained and is an excellent place to visit anytime throughout the year.