TRADITIONALLY open garden events pray for a sunny day, but the owners of Pear Tree Cottage at Witton Hill, Wichenford, about eight miles west of Worcester, are daring to be different. Because they will be lighting hundreds of candles and nightlights and opening their award winning garden at dusk on Sunday, August 25 for a “Twilight Garden by Candlelight” in aid of the National Gardens Scheme.

The location has sweeping views over the surrounding apple orchards to Abberley clock tower, the Abberley Hills and beyond. 

The gardens surround a Grade II listed black and white cottage and include a lily filled wildlife pond, chickens in a Medieval style pole house, a writing room and a herb garden.

Owners Pam and Alistair Thompson have even installed a working red telephone kiosk and restored a 50ft well. 

“We just love quirky and amusing features,” said Mrs Thompson. “On the evening we will be lighting hundreds of candles and nightlights and inviting visitors to watch the bats and listen to owls while enjoying the garden at dusk. 

"Trees, shrubs and sculptures will be softly uplit and there is plenty of seating in this secret cottage garden.

"There is even a comfortable summerhouse.  Delicious homemade teas will be served in the conservatory with wine after 6pm.”

Back in May, Pear Tree Cottage was one of the gardens that took part in the Gardens of Wichenford event which raised £8,200 for local charities.

It has also been runner-up in Britain’s Shed of the Year and won a silver medal in the national Best Gardeners’ Garden competition. On August 25 it will be open from 4pm until 10pm and admission will be £5 for adults with children free.