WINCHESTER Cathedral is offering visitors the opportunity to explore the delightful gardens in the Cathedral Close today on a special tour led by the Cathedral’s green-fingered Head Gardener Emma Sharpe .

Emma will provide a unique insight into the daily life of Winchester Cathedral’s gardeners, who work tirelessly throughout the year to maintain the beautiful green spaces surrounding Winchester Cathedral.

The tour will take visitors on a journey through the Outer Close, Inner Close and Dean Garnier Garden, with special access to the Lower Deanery Garden and the Cathedral allotments.

Visitors will also hear stories of interesting plants within the Cathedral grounds and the history of ancient trees in the Cathedral Close.

Emma Sharpe, Head Gardener at Winchester Cathedral, said: "Winchester Cathedral is magnificent and our aim is to ensure that the grounds surrounding this incredible building are equally inspiring. Every corner counts and I can’t wait to share the hidden history of our beautiful gardens with our visitors."

Anyone wishing to join the tour should meet outside the West Front of the Cathedral at 10.00am.

This tour includes steps and uneven ground so may not be suitable for everyone and suitable footwear on this tour.

Tickets cost £6.50 per person and are available at Winchester Cathedral Box Office, by phone: 01962 857275 or from: www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk.