Open Garden: Heritage Rose Garden, Garlington Estate - Sat 25 & Sun 26 Oct
Step into a living archive of botanical history at the Heritage Rose Garden in Garlington Estate, Hilton. Created and lovingly maintained by the Midlands' Rose Society, this extraordinary garden now boasts over 146 different varieties of Heritage roses, with quite a few still to be identified, all dating between the 1500s and 1945. Each rose has a story. Many were discovered on old farms, graveyards and homesteads across South Africa—planted generations ago by early settlers who brought roses with them as cherished reminders of home. Roses, which do not grow natively in the southern hemisphere, became enduring symbols of beauty and belonging for those carving out new lives on distant soil.

The garden layout features four colour-themed beds, encircling a central lawn area. All the roses are clearly labelled with names and dates. Visitors are encouraged to pack a picnic and linger in the tranquil surroundings. A variety of plants and rose cuttings will be on sale, alongside garden-collected seed packets and beautifully illustrated Rose Calendars and Cards by Jackie Kalley. Proceeds from the entry fee and all sales go directly towards the ongoing care and preservation of this historic garden, ensuring its stories continue to bloom for future generations.

Dates: Sat 25 & Sun 26 October
Address: Heritage Rose Garden, Garlington Estate, Seeking Dr, Hilton
Times: 9am - 4pm
Entrance: R10p/p (children under 12 free)
Directions: From the N3, take the Hilton off-ramp onto the M80. Turn right towards the Hilton Life Hospital. Second road right, Elizabeth Drive. Then second road 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.

Dogs on leashes permitted.