Hill Close Gardens

Hill Close Gardens is a small collection of restored Victorian garden plots just off Bread and Meat Close in Warwick, open Tuesday to Sunday from April to early November. The 16 hedged gardens date from the 1840s and were originally used by townspeople to grow fruit and vegetables; today they're maintained with heritage varieties, glasshouses and old gardening methods. There's a plant nursery, seasonal tearoom and a calendar of open days and workshops.

Well-behaved dogs are welcome throughout the gardens on short leads, making it a calm town-centre stop for a gentle wander without the logistics of splitting up. The Visitor Centre is for assistance dogs only, so your dog stays outside if you're browsing indoors.

Two hours' free parking is available in the council-run car park immediately outside the gates, though race days at the nearby Warwick Racecourse can mean spaces fill quickly. Last entry is 3.30 pm and the tearoom opens on weekends, bank holidays and special event days.