A FORMER hunting lodge between Leominster and Ludlow will be open to the public.

Gatley Park, owned by Domenica Dunne and her husband, Ludlow MP Philip Dunne, dates back to the first half of the 16th century.

The public has the rare opportunity to visit on June 22 and 23 as part of the Open Gardens programme for St Michael’s Hospice in Hereford.

The property, on the edge of the Mortimer Forest, is approached up a long driveway through a former deer park.

On the south side of the house are knot gardens and parterres descending to a 150ft border overlooking the wooden valley opposite.

There is also a pavilion designed in the style of a Chinese temple complete with Chinese dragon.

Gatley Park is open between 1pm and 5pm on both days.

For advance discount tickets and further information, visit www.st-michaels-hospice.org.uk