There will be a chance to see some of the most beautiful and impressive trees in the Sid Valley's private gardens on Saturday, May 4.

As part of Sidmouth Arboretum's Celebration of Trees, the owners of 17  gardens will open their gates to the public, free of charge, on Saturday, May 4.

Diana East, President of the Arboretum, said: “Whether you seek a maple, a mulberry or a monkey puzzle you are sure to find a fine range of trees, large and small, in our valley gardens."

Rebecca Lockyear gardener and artist, said: “We love opening our garden, though it means lots of preparation time, as the visitors are so appreciative of our trees and stumpery.

"We look forward to welcoming you on this special fun day out and sharing our enthusiasm for trees."

There are two opening sessions: 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. Some gardens will be open only for the morning or afternoon session, and some will be serving tea and coffee. A map and full details of the gardens and their trees, along with their opening times and other information, can be found on Sidmouth Arboretum's website.

Sidmouth's extraordinary tree collection was planted by intrepid Victorians in the 19th century. They chose the town, with its gentle microclimate, as a nursery for their finds. At the time the town was popular among fashionable Victorian holidaymakers.

The Civic Arboretum was established in 2010 to preserve these trees and to plant replacements so that future generations can inherit and enjoy the rich plant heritage.