Gardens at Constantine, Helford and Helston will be opening their gates to the public this year as Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s Open Gardens scheme returns for another season.

What better way to spend a Sunday throughout the spring, summer and early autumn than visiting beautiful gardens, while also raising vital funds for the trust’s conservation work protecting Cornwall’s wildlife and wild places.

The gardens range from grand affairs to smaller more intimate green spaces, but they all have the common theme of providing a haven for Cornish wildlife.

Chris Betty, communications officer for the trust, said: “Our 2016 Open Gardens scheme raised a record breaking £12,400 and we are looking to do even better this year. Stay in Cornwall, holiday accommodation providers are our overall sponsor with invaluable support from Rodda’s, Crantock Bakery and Cornish Coffee, who are providing cream teas, pasties, and beverages. The trust has a very personal approach to these events. A group of our brilliant volunteers organise everything, leaving the owners free on the day to chat to visitors and inspire them as to how they can use what they see in their own gardens.”

With various activities and special appearances from wildlife groups, these are events that all the family can enjoy, even the dog, except where specially excluded due to wildlife. One spring garden even has a petanque pitch.

Mark Nicholson, chairman of trustees for Cornwall Wildlife Trust, said: “The Trust's varied programme of events gives endless opportunities for everyone to find out about Cornwall's unique nature. Through the Open Gardens scheme, the organisers and owners offer a beautifully simple way for people to enjoy that nature and contribute to safeguarding its future.”

Among the gardens to feature in this year's scheme are: Pedn Billy on Bar Road, Helford Passage, which will be open on April 9 for visitors to view wild flower areas, specimen trees and terraced borders, with half of the 12 acres is given over to ancient woodlands with paths that wind down to Port Navas Creek and a private beach.

Meadowside at Trevarth, near Redruth, on July 2. A six acre smallholding which is managed with wildlife in mind, with a large vegetable garden, a wildflower meadow, and a walled garden, and where hedgehogs are often seen, along with rabbits and the odd fox.

Trenarth at High Cross, Constantine, on July 23. A four acre garden surrounding a 17th century granite farmhouse, with many unusual and tender plants and quirky features such as the toilet in a telephone box.

Carminowe Valley Garden at Tangies near Helston on September 3. An abundant wildlife garden on the side of Carminowe Valley, in deep oak woodland, buzzing with butterflies and insects, and signs of otters in the stream.

Tanglewood Wild Garden at Newbridge near Penzance on September 10. A wild garden with winding uneven paths through the woodland, deep water ponds, fascinating sculptures and natural surroundings.

Entrance to all gardens is £5 per adult unless stated otherwise, with free entry for under-16s. For further details and directions visit cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk/opengardens or call 01872 273939.