Historical manor house opens for bluebell walk

Richard Madden
BBC News
Harlaxton Manor A woodland path among trees and surrounded by bluebell flowers. The sun is shining through the branches creating a mix of light and shadows on the ground.Harlaxton Manor
Visitors to Harlaxton Manor will have the chance to explore part of the 300-acre estate

A Grade I listed manor house turned college, which is rarely open to the public, will welcome visitors for a weekend, officials have confirmed.

Harlaxton Manor in Grantham, Lincolnshire, will allow guests to explore a bluebell walk through its woodland on Saturday and Sunday 3 and 4 May.

The 1831-built house is home to Harlaxton College, which is the British campus for the University of Evansville in the United States, and is situated within 300-acres of parkland and gardens.

Dr Holly Carter, dean of the college, said she was "ecstatic" to be holding the event and added: "It is a particular favourite of ours in the yearly calendar."

Harlaxton Manor An aerial view of Harlaxton Manor in Lincolnshire. The house is surrounded by a large wall featuring several towers. A circular lawn in situated in the centre of a courtyard in front of the main building. Landscaped gardens are on the right of the image.Harlaxton Manor
Harlaxton Manor near Grantham is Grade I listed and was built in 1831

"The bluebells add such a distinct and beautiful splash of colour to our historic grounds," Dr Carter added.

In addition to the bluebell walk, guests will also be able to join a guided tour of the walled garden, which is undergoing restoration.

Officials said, when complete, the site will be "reimagined" with a sensory garden, medicinal garden and orchard, as well as a community and educational hub.

Tickets for the event will be available at the manor on the day.

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