Bishopscourt is a green oasis in the heart of Rochester and the only Kent garden in the Yellow Book listings to offer visitors a castle, cathedral and river view.

The Bishop of Rochester, the Rt Rev James Langstaff, and his wife Bridget will open their gates this weekend when the garden will be in full bloom and again in September for late summer colour.

Bridget oversees most of the work as her husband’s duties do not leave him much time to tend the one-acre plot.

Bishop James and Bridget are keen for their residence to be used for the benefit of the diocese and this includes making the garden accessible for the National Garden Scheme. The couple moved in during 2010 and Bridget has been creating new borders, replanting beds and adding more features to bring greater shape and colour to what she says was a ‘fairly plain patch’.

There is a south-facing walled corner where hardy geraniums and grasses thrive. Roses are establishing themselves on a new pergola and the mixed borders are now ‘filling in nicely’ with perennials and shrubs.

Bridget said: “The garden is still very much work in progress but we would love visitors to enjoy and share the open space which is probably something of a surprise in this built up part of the city. There is plenty of lawn with places to sit and relax. It is mainly flat, although there are a few steps up to the bench on the look-out point.

“The views are wonderful and a circular tour of the garden will offer little surprises along the way. Our glasshouse has been refurbished and there’s a small vegetable patch. We’ll be selling plants, too.”

Bishopscourt is Grade II* listed and Bridget can also offer visitors information about the historic property. A stable block has been converted and washroom facilities have been incorporated.

There are a few parking spaces to allow disabled access, otherwise take advantage of parking in one of the main car parks and enjoy a walk through Rochester to St Margaret’s Road.

When: Saturday, June 15, and Sunday, June 16

Cost: Adults £3, children free

For more information or a full list of open gardens visit www.ngs.co.uk