Join young Mary Lennox as she discovers the Secret Garden in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Performed in one of Kent’s most impressive country house gardens, the ever-popular family tale is brought to life by Chapterhouse Theatre Company as part of their summer tour of open-air productions.

Audiences can settle down with a picnic and watch the musical adaptation unfold in a delightful walled garden, then indulge in a cream tea afterwards.

In Frances Hodgson Burnett’s much-loved novel, Mary is a rude and spoiled girl who is not happy to be sent to her uncle’s remote country home after the death of her parents.

Lonely and bored, Mary’s fortunes change when she discovers a charming walled garden hidden in the grounds – but the garden is not her uncle’s only secret.

You can see the show at Belmont House and Gardens in Throwley, near Faversham, on Sunday, August 23.

The performance starts at 2pm and tickets cost £14 for adults and £10 for children. Booked at www.seetickets.com or by calling 0871 220 0260.

Bickering lovers and misunderstandings abound in Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing.

The Pantaloons will bring the story of Beatrice and Benedick to life in the outdoor setting of Smallhythe Place, near Tenterden, on Sunday, August 23.

You can see the open-air performance of this much-loved comedy in the grounds at 7pm and the audience is welcome to bring picnics and chairs.

Tickets £15 for adults and £8 for children. It is essential to book on 0844 249 1895.

Chapterhouse will also perform Jane Austen’s classic love story Pride and Prejudice in the beautiful gardens at Walmer Castle, near Deal.

Fans can meet loveable heroine Elizabeth Bennet, who meets the rude and abrupt Mr Darcy.

She loathes him at first sight but it becomes clear there is more to him than meets the eye.

Chapterhouse has gained a reputation as one of the top open-air touring companies and has performed six productions this year.

Families are encouraged to bring their own seating and also pack some warm clothes or blankets, as it can get nippy after sundown.

Picnics are welcome and light refreshments will be available. You can see the show on Thursday, August 27.

The performance starts at 7.30pm and costs £15 for adults, £11 for children or £43 for a family ticket. Call 0871 2200260.