2 August 2011Last updated at 14:24

In pictures: Wrest Park gardens restoration unveiled

The first phase of a restoration project to restore one of Britain's finest and least known gardens has been unveiled.

The long water running down to the Archer Pavilion at Wrest Park

Overgrown and practically lost, Wrest Park in Bedfordshire has been described by English Heritage as one of Britain's most important historic landscapes.

The restoration project aims to restore the gardens to their former glory.

The gardens span over 90 acres and the restoration is part of a 20-year English Heritage programme.

The project has been funded by a £1.14m grant by the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Gardener at the Italian Gardens at Wrest Park

The first phase includes the restoration of the Italian and rose gardens.

The gardens running down to the Archer Pavilion at Wrest Park

Simon Thurley, English Heritage's chief executive, said: "Wrest Park tells the story of England's love affair with landscape. It is a unique place capturing 300 years of gardening history."

English Heritage will re-open Wrest Park to the public on Thursday.

Beds, Herts & Bucks

In pictures: Wrest Park gardens restoration unveiled

Share this page

Services

About BBC News