Blackwoods Open Midlands Gardens 2025

Explore the enchanting gardens of KwaZulu-Natal’s Midlands as more than 30 private and community spaces open to visitors between September and November. From tranquil forest gardens and rambling farm-style landscapes to compact, creative spaces full of charm, each garden offers something unique. Whether you’re drawn to heritage roses, floral art, or peaceful picnic spots, you’ll find inspiration at every stop. Many gardens also support local charities, making your visit both memorable and meaningful.

Enquiries: Jackie Kalley 082 924 5892 

Email: jackie@otterley.com 

www.blackwoods.co.za/blackwoods-omg 

Sunday 21 September 

BALGOWAN 

BOSCH HOEK GOLF ESTATE 

Lisa Thompson 

Set within the picturesque Bosch Hoek Manor House, this stunning forest garden is a 60-year-old sanctuary nestled between the rolling fairways of Bosch Hoek’s top-rated 9-hole golf course. Its serene beauty offers visitors a peaceful retreat, where nature’s splendour unfolds in vibrant displays of clivias, japonicas, azaleas, hydrangeas, camellias and rhododendrons. 

Time: 9:00-15:00 

Tickets: R10 

Charity: SPCA Howick 

Directions: From Durban, Bosch Hoek Golf Estate is a 1.5 hour journey along the N3 towards Johannesburg. Take the Balgowan and Curry’s Post glide-off Exit 125, at the top of the glide-off turn right over the N3 and travel 500 m to the Bosch Hoek Golf Club gate. 

• Food and drink  

Saturday 20 September – Sunday 12 October 

KARKLOOF 

BENVIE GARDENS 

John and Jenny Robinson 

Benvie Estate is a grand old garden with deep roots in the Karkloof landscape. Established by Joh Geekie over 130 years ago and still cared for by his descendants, this 30-hectare arboretum has become one of the most celebrated gardens in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. Designed as a circular walk, the garden invites visitors to stroll beneath a towering canopy of exotic trees from around the world. These majestic giants form a backdrop for sweeping lawns, tranquil ponds and a dazzling display of flowering azaleas and rhododendrons. In spring, the garden bursts to life with vibrant colour, fragrance and the soothing sound of birdsong, making every corner feel magical. 

Time: 9:00-16:00 

Tickets: R50 

Directions: Take the Karkloof Road from Howick. Travel for 33 km and that point turn right on the York/New Hanover Road. Travel down the York Road for 3 km and follow the Benvie signs. 

• Plant sales 

• Limited wheel chair access  

• Picnic spots 

Friday 17 – Sunday 19 October 

HOWICK 

1 OAKLEIGH DR, HOWICK 

Gordon and Kim Stuart 

Set above the sweeping banks of the Umngeni River, this magnificent Howick garden is a showcase of relaxed elegance and layered beauty. Developed over more than two decades, this large, rambling farm-style garden blends the romance of an English park-style design with country living. Wide, rolling lawns frame deep, flower-filled borders where roses, perennials and flowering shrubs tumble together in joyous profusion. Arbours and water features provide quiet moments of interest and reflection. 

Time: 9:00-16:00 

Tickets: Donation 

Charity: Friends of the Rottweiler Rescue & Rehome 

Directions: From the N3 take the Howick North/ Tweedie turn off and drive towards Howick. Pass the Greendale Supermarket on your right. At the robot turn right into Amber Ave and immediately left into Wear Ave. Wear merges into Northumberland. Merge right into Braemar. Turn right into Rylands. Turn right into Rosebank. No 1 Oakleigh is at the end of Rosebank. Park on the verge. 

• Limited wheelchair access  

• Plant sales 

• Food and drink  

• Picnic spots  

Friday 17 – Sunday 19 October 

BAYNES HOUSE 

BAYNESFIELD 

Baynes House, Baynesfield Estate 

Lisa Thompson 

This enchanting garden, lovingly nurtured, is a testament to the elegance of a bygone era, with majestic, century-old trees and a beautifully restored formal rose garden. Stroll through the garden’s delightful maze and wander amidst vibrant carpets of violas. The garden exudes a quiet grandeur, its pathways meandering past centuries-old trees. 

Time: 9:00-15:00 

Tickets: R10 

Directions: Take the N3 north. Shortly after Camperdown, take the off-ramp to the left (Exit 61) for Eston, Umbumbulu, Richmond. After exiting the highway, turn right at the sign for Richmond/Thornville. After about 15 minutes, you’ll reach a T-junction with a sawmill on your right and chicken houses in front. Turn left. Continue for about 500 m, then turn right at the signs for Baynesfield and Baynesfield Estate. Travel approximately 5 km until you reach stone pillars and an avenue of plane trees. 

• Plant sales 

• Dogs allowed 

• Wheelchair access 

• Food and drink  

• Picnic spots  

Saturday 18 – 19 October 

DARGLE 

MILLFORD FARM 

Millford Farm, on the D666, Dargle 

Kate Baynes 

Step into a garden where elegance and wild charm intertwine. Perched atop a hill with sweeping views of the Dargle Valley, Millford Farm offers a beautifully terraced garden designed with formal structure, yet softened by the abundance of natural planting. A series of interconnected garden ‘rooms’ unfolds gracefully around the classic red brick home, creating peaceful spaces that invite exploration and quiet contemplation. 

Times: 9:00-16:30 

Tickets: Donations 

Charity: Citizen Leadership Lab 

Directions: From Pietermaritzburg north on the N3, take exit 107. Go left at the fly-off and continue until the T-junction (Everything Shop). Go right onto the R103 for 5 km until the turnoff to the Dargle on the left (before Piggly Wiggly). Follow the Dargle Road for 14.2 km and turn right onto the district road D666. Continue up the gravel road for ±4 km. Turn right onto the farm road at large stone gates signposted ‘Millford’. Continue for ±1 km to the home. Park under the trees on the driveway. 

• Art 

• Food and drink  

Saturday 18 – 19 October 

KARKLOOF 

WATERFORD HALL 

Eileen Stuart 

Farm No 10, Karkloof 

Waterford Hall is a carefully composed landscape where romance, structure and surprise meet. Perched comfortably on the side of a hill, the home itself, a converted abattoir, gazes over borrowed vistas of tree-lined slopes and peaceful water. The setting alone is remarkable, but it’s what lies within the garden that truly enchants. 

Time: 9:00-16:00 

Tickets: R20 

Directions: From the Main Street in Howick, take the Karkloof Road past the Ambers. Farm No 10 is opposite the Farmer’s Market. 

Saturday 18 – 19 October 

NOTTINGHAM ROAD 

NOTTING HILL LODGE 

Notting Hill Lodge, on the R103 Old Main Road, Balgowan 

Koos & Lorraine de Klerk 

The extensive grounds are anchored by magnificent trees, the real stars of this landscape. From a towering Himalayan oak to majestic plane trees, old cherry blossoms, skyscraper pines and a stately walnut, these trees offer shade, structure and serenity. Interspersed throughout are bursts of colour from azaleas, flowering shrubs and beds planted with tree dahlias, watsonias, aloes and St. Joseph lilies. 

Time: 9:00-17:00 

Tickets: R10 

Directions: From Pietermaritzburg take the N3 North. Turn-off at exit 107 Howick North/Tweedie. At the top of the off ramp, turn left. At the T-junction turn right onto the R103. Notting Hill Lodge is 1.5 km past Michaelhouse on your left. It is well sign posted. 

• Art 

• Dogs allowed  

• Limited wheelchair access  

• Picnic spots  

HYDRANGEA LODGE 

Hydrangea Lodge, 1 Braemar Lane, Nottingham Road 

Marita Kruger 

Located in a picturesque setting, Hydrangea Lodge is a haven of peace and charm, with a history dating back to the 1950s. This informal cottage-style garden invites visitors to meander beneath the protective canopy of large trees, which have gracefully stood the test of time. Rhododendrons, azaleas and hydrangeas burst into colour, creating a stunning display of blossoms that change with the seasons. 

Time: 9:00-17:00 

Tickets: R10 

Directions: From Nottingham Road, take the R103 going North towards Rosetta. Go past the Police 

Station and turn left immediately into Braemar Lane and drive to the end of the Lane. 

• Dogs allowed  

• Wheelchair access  

• Picnic spots 

Saturday 25 October – Sunday 26 October 

HILTON 

Andrew and Wendy Line 

5 Fern Ridge, 32 Flamingo Drive, Hilton 

Nestled within a complex of freestanding homes, Andrew and Wendy Line inherited a beautiful garden. With input from Mike Hammersly, this garden has undergone a refined renovation over the past two years, blending the elegance of formal design with the warmth of informal planting. The garden has become a true reflection of the family’s style, with a playful touch inspired by their grandkids, who love the magical fairy garden features. 

Time: 8:00-16:00 

Tickets: R10 

Directions: Turn down Park Lane, on North side of Checkers. Turn immediate right into Azalea, 1 km on right is Fern Ridge. 

• Wheelchair access 

HERITAGE ROSE GARDEN 

Gail Birss – Heritage Rose Garden (Midland’s Rose Society) 

Garlington Estate, Seeking Drive, Hilton 

Created and lovingly maintained by the Midlands Rose Society, this extraordinary garden now boasts over 146 different varieties of Heritage roses dating between the 1500s and 1945. Each rose has a story. The garden layout features four colour-themed beds, encircling a central lawn area which are easily accessible via a gently sloped ramp and a perimeter pathway, making it wheelchair-friendly. 

Time: 9:00-16:00 

Tickets: R10 (children under 12 free) 

Directions: From the N3, take the Hilton offramp onto the M80. Turn right towards the Hilton Life Hospital. Take the second road to the right, Elizabeth Drive. Take the second road to the left, Seeking Drive to the entrance of Garlington Estate. After entering through the gate, drive to the T-junction, turn right, past the next boom and then turn right again into Karoo Lane. Follow this road, which goes off to the right almost taking a loop around buildings. The Midland’s Heritage Garden is on the left. It is well marked with a large sign. You may have to walk the last 200m. 

• Plant sales  

• Dogs allowed  

• Wheelchair  

• Picnic spots  

18 FLAMINGO ROAD, LEONARD, HILTON 

Sarah Bowman 

A former show garden turned jungle, this once forgotten gem has been lovingly restored into a vibrant, structured English country garden, now blooming with over 300 roses and brimming with renewed charm and character. Echoes of the past remain in the form of a beautifully preserved old windmill, a reminder of the property’s origins and an anchor in this story of revival. 

Time: 9:00-17:00 

Tickets: R10 

Directions: Coming off the highway, turn into Hilton Avenue, towards the Shell Garage. Turn left into Park Lane (just before the Checkers Centre) and then immediately right into Azalea Road, just below the centre. Continue for 1,5 km until you reach a sharp corner with the Garden of Remembrance on your left. Turn right into an avenue of plane trees and continue up to the first gate on your left. 

PIETERMARITZBURG 

WOODGROVE RETIREMENT VILLAGE 

28A Howick Road, Pietermaritzburg 

Discover six beautiful gardens, each one a celebration of colour, creativity and the joy of gardening in small spaces. Whether you’re an avid gardener, a casual admirer, or looking for inspiration, you’ll find something special in every corner. From smart use of space in compact gardens to delightful beds bursting with seasonal blooms, you’ll find pretty, easy-to-love plantings that show how much impact a small space can have. 

Empie Brits – 2 Hibiscus Lane 

Malcolm Fauconnier – 1 Hibiscus Lane 

Maureen Keane-Murphy – 39 Conifer Drive 

Mark Laing – 1 Wisteria Way 

Fay Steenkamp – 3 Hibiscus Lane 

Janet van Heerden – 41 Conifer Drive 

Time: 9:30-16:00 

Tickets: R20 

Directions: From the N3 north, take the 82 Armitage Rd/Sanctuary Rd turn off. Go straight at the top of the fly-off, through the traffic light, into the traffic circle and then second exit into Hyslop Road. Take the second right into Gough Road, then first left and immediate right into Howick Road. Woodgrove Retirement Village will be on your right in about 100m. 

HOWICK 

AMBERFIELD RETIREMENT VILLAGE 

Get out and explore nine small but wonderfully personal gardens at Amberfield, each one brimming with charm, creativity, and gardening passion. These compact spaces showcase the joy of gardening at any age and offer so much gardening inspiration. There’s plenty to admire for lovers of cool, green sanctuaries. Several gardens celebrate classic English cottage style, with heritage and hybrid roses mingling with perennials, groundcovers and arching blooms bringing soft colour and fragrance. Find inspiration in gardens that mix succulents, indigenous plants, and even bonsai collections. 

Rikki Abbot Wedderburn – 7 Loerie Close 

Peta Barnsley – 4 Loerie Close 

Liz Denison – 17 Francoline Lane 

Lyn Gemmell – 9 Jacana Lane 

Glynn and Jean Harborth – 3 Quail Road 

Christa Lubbe – 1 Guinea Fowl Lane 

Garth Meyer and Jennie Swanepoel – 5 Prinia Lane 

Giel and Barbara von Beneke – 4 Harrier Lane 

Mike and Gill Wilson – 4 Mannikin Drive 

Time: 9:00-16:00 

Tickets: R20 

Directions: Coming through Howick on Main Street, turn right into Karkloof Road (Super Quick Tyres on the corner). Turn left into Mare Street. Continue up Mare Street, and the Amberfield entrance is on the right. 

Midland’s Floral Art Society will host a Floral Art Display and Demonstration in the main Amberfield lounge. Floral art demonstration (free of charge) will be held at 10:30 on Saturday 25. Teas and eats will be available in the main lounge for R25 per person. 

• Plant sales  

• Wheel chair access  

• Food and drink  

Saturday 1 – Sunday 2 November 

HOWICK 

13 DREW AVENUE, HOWICK 

Meg McCleary 

Nestled beside a 140-year-old house that exudes old-world charm, this English country rose garden is a labour of love. Established almost entirely from slips, cuttings, and regular plant splitting, the garden showcases a stunning display of roses, each grown from carefully nurtured cuttings, embodying the beauty of English-style gardening. The ongoing growth of this enchanting space is a testament to its owners’ dedication and passion for conservation and sustainable practices. 

Time: 9:00-16:00 

Tickets: R10 

Charity: Hospice 

Directions: Turn left off Main Road into Curries Post Road. The second right is Drew Avenue. House on the right, Just before the corner of Essex Road. 

EAGLE RIDGE ESTATE 

5 Curry’s Post Road, Howick 

Seven inspiring private gardens will be open, each offering something a little different to enjoy. Expect a mix of country charm and cottage style creativity, with colourful displays of roses, flowering perennials, annuals and waterwise succulents. These gardens make clever use of compact spaces with tucked-away seating areas, bird-friendly planting, hanging baskets and ornamental touches like water features, garden sculptures and planted containers. They boast wide views over Midmar Dam and peaceful spots 

to pause and take in the scene. You’ll find plenty of colour, thoughtful planting and a love of nature woven through each garden – whether it’s a shady nook, a sun-soaked terrace, or a winding path lined with herbs, shrubs, or blooms. 

Annie Havemann – 2 Wren Crescent 

Keith and Jill Andrews – 2 Hoope Lane 

Sue Nuss – 2 Weaver Crescent 

Beryl Osborne – 3 Wren Crescent 

Barbara Taljard – 2 Sunbird Avenue 

Monica Tratschler – 5 Sunbird Avenue 

Roper Nehal – 9 Wren Crescent 

Time: 9:30-15:30 

Tickets: R40 includes Art Show and access to Clubhouse for teas 

Charity: Sunfield Home in Howick 

Directions: If you’re coming from Howick CBD, proceed along Main Road. At the Lenmed Hospital turn right into Curries Post Road. Just after the Checkers centre turn left into Eagle Ridge Estate. The Floral Club will be hosting a demonstration by a floral art judge who has exhibited at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show (10:00) at the clubhouse (Tern Way). Floral art display and artworks available to view or purchase. 

• Art 

• Food and drink 

ANGEL’S CARE CENTRE 

COMMUNITY HALL AND HALL CAFE 

2 Falls Drive Howick – Old Agricultural Hall Georgie Purdon 

Tucked away in the heart of Howick, this thoughtfully curated sensory garden is a tranquil space designed to awaken all five senses. Created by landscape designer Greg Dowsett, each section of the garden invites visitors to engage with nature in a meaningful way. Informative boards guide you through the experience, making it both interactive and educational. 

Time: 8:00-14:30 

Tickets: R10 or more as donations to Angel’s Care 

Directions: Near the Howick falls, next to the Howick Museum. 

• Dogs allowed  

• Wheelchair  

• Food and drink 

AMBER GLADES 

D507, off Karkloof Road, Howick 

Visit a dynamic garden designed by landscaper Gary Cox. The garden’s design philosophy integrates nature into the residents’ daily lives, creating a harmonious and uplifting environment that is both engaging and calming. The main feature is its octagonal pergola, covered with roses, offering stunning views from the upper floor of the building. A second pergola, added recently, complements this space and enhances the tranquil atmosphere. There is also a well-structured kitchen garden, adding both functionality and beauty to the design. 

Time: 10:00-14:00 

Tickets: Donation 

Directions: Take the Karkloof Road out of Howick, past Amber Valley. Amber Glades is on the right-hand side shortly thereafter (right next to the Amber Ridge gate). 

BROADACRES COUNTRY ESTATE 

Carol Sacke 

Unit 12, Broadacres Country Estate, Merrivale Heights, Howick 

Set on what was once an orange farm, this extraordinary garden is a heartfelt tribute to life, love and legacy. Lovingly created by artist Carol Sacke and her husband Kevin, the garden is a celebration of their daughter Kelli and a reflection of Carol’s artistic spirit. 

Times: 8:00-17:00 

Tickets: R20 

Charity: CHOC 

Directions: From the N3 North, take Exit 99 Howick South/Underberg and turn immediately left into Wilson Drive to the T-junction. Turn right up District Road. Drive to Broadacres Country Estate, District Road, Merrivale Heights, Birnam Wood Road. 

• Plant sales  

• Dogs allowed  

• Limited wheelchair access  

• Food and drink  

CAVERSHAM 

ARDMORE 

Fee Berning 

1 Lavendula Road, Caversham 

Nestled in Caversham, this beautiful open garden draws inspiration from French Provincial style. A place where simplicity meets beauty, the garden features sweeping beds of flowers, lovingly tended to by gardener Rosie Sithole. Visitors can look forward to a joyful display of color and fragrance, with poppies, roses, delphiniums and fox gloves standing out as seasonal highlights. Visitors who purchase items from the onsite art studio will receive free entry to the garden. 

Time: 8:30-16:00 

Tickets: R50. R100 including tea and coffee 

Charity: ACF Thembelihle and Angels Care 

Directions: Directly after the entrance to Saint Ives you will take your first right-hand turn onto the dirt road. Drive for 4 km and pass the Caversham restaurant on the right-hand side. Cross over the bridge and you will see Ardmore ceramics entry. 

• Art 

• Limited wheel chair  

• Food and drink  

Saturday 8 – Sunday 9 November 

BALGOWAN 

INKWAZI FARM 

Val Jefferiss 

Inkwazi Farm, on the R103, Balgowan 

The semi-formal gardens at Inkwazi Farm span 4000 m², offering a delightful mix of indigenous and exotic plants, creating a harmonious atmosphere around a picturesque ornamental dam. Lush lawns and vibrant plantings frame the peaceful waters, inviting visitors to wander and appreciate the natural beauty of the space. Visitors will also find a selection of pots and garden ornaments from Imbiza Design. 

Time: 10:00-16:00 

Tickets: R10 

Charity: Mooi River SPCA 

Directions: Travel on the R103 from Howick to Nottingham Road. 1,4 km past Michaelhouse School, gateposts on the left with the name ‘Inkwazi Farm’. Turn left into driveway and halfway up left again to ‘Jefferiss’. 

MICHAELHOUSE SCHOOL 

Amanda Jarvis 

Michaelhouse School, R103, Balgowan 

The gardens at Michaelhouse School are a focal point of the 129-year-old institution, adding to its historic red brick architecture and providing a serene environment for students, staff and visitors alike. The front gardens, designed by renowned landscaper Tim Steyn, are particularly striking, featuring a beautiful water feature and the iconic statue of the Archangel Michael and the dragon. This area, which has been showcased in The Gardener Magazine, reflects the school’s commitment to creating spaces that enhance both the aesthetic and spiritual atmosphere of the campus. 

Tickets: Free 

Directions: On the R103, between Nottingham Road and Howick. 

• Food and drink  

PETER’S GATE HERBAL CENTRE 

Kirsten Makin 

R103, Lidgetton 

On the edge of the picturesque Caversham Valley, Peter’s Gate Herbal Centre is a working herb farm and garden that invites visitors to explore the wonderful world of medicinal, culinary and ornamental herbs. The garden features a wide variety of plants used in medicine, cosmetics, culinary and permaculture practices. Guided tours. 

Time: 9:00-16:00 

Tickets: R10 

Charity: FreeMe Wildlife and Rehabilitation 

Directions: From Durban take Exit 107 from the N3 north bound. Turn left at the stop street and follow the road to the T-junction. Turn right on to the R103 in the direction of Lion’s River. Follow the R103 for approximately 12 km and you’ll find Peter’s Gate Farm Cottage on the right. 

• Plant sales 

• Dogs allowed  

• Limited wheel chair access  

• Picnic spots  

17 HOSKING ROAD, PIETERMARITZBURG 

Justen Dralle 

Discover a tranquil retreat behind red brick walls. Just five years old, this formal garden is a beautifully structured, tiered garden inspired by the elegance of Victorian design. A traditional design with symmetry and order bringing a sense of calm and grace. At its heart lies a central koi pond, surrounded by kitchen garden beds that brim with seasonal edibles. 

Times: 8:30-16:00 

Tickets: R50 

Charity: Upland Conservation 

Directions: Go down Hosking Road from the Athlone Circle Shopping Centre. 

Saturday 15 – Sunday 16 November 

THE FORDOUN STAFF COMMUNITY VILLAGE 

Jon Bates 

The village showcases three modest yet lovingly tended gardens that reflect pride, care and a deep connection to place. Each garden is situated on a small plot, neatly curated with well-maintained grass and formal garden areas. The gardens may not feature extravagant designs, but their simplicity is what makes them so appealing – a perfect example of how practical and elegant spaces can be created. 

Times: 9:00-16:00 

Tickets: R10 

Directions: On the R103 800 m past Fordoun Hotel and Spa entrance if heading in direction towards Nottingham Road Village. 

NGUNI RIVERSIDE ESTATE 

Wayne and Sharon Devitt 

Experience the beauty of a stunning country garden shaped by heart, heritage and harmony with nature. This evolving garden is a testament to the beauty that unfolds when nature is allowed to lead. Lush informal rose garden with two heritage rose beds and 3,500 self-propagated roses. 

Time: 8:30-16:00 

Tickets: R10 

Directions: Follow the N3 towards Nottingham Road, take the Linga Lapa/Windmills turn-off, and follow the R103 towards Rosetta. Turn left at D146 and follow the dust road to Nguni Riverside Estate 

• Plant sales  

• Limited wheelchair access  

• Picnic spots