The report found Wellbeing significantly improved after visiting the gardens in winter.

Visitors felt more relaxed, happy and excited in the gardens, and less stressed, sad and bored. The level of wellbeing was similarly high for visitors in winter and summer, suggesting that visiting gardens during either season is likely to carry benefits.

But the average level of wellbeing before entering the gardens in winter was lower than in summer, meaning that those visiting in winter showed the greatest increase in wellbeing. The more nature visitors observed in the gardens, such as birds, insects, and water, the higher their wellbeing.

“Our research suggests that visiting a garden in winter can be just as beneficial as visiting in summer, as long as you wrap up warm,” says report author, Dr Emma White. “This is an important finding, as we may notice ourselves getting out in to gardens less during a time which many consider to be dormant. But winter gardens can be full of life and interest.

Our survey respondents felt that winter is the perfect time to observe the emergence of new growth and experience the unique joy of spring flowering bulbs. It is a great time to appreciate the structure of a well-designed garden, and respondents noticed lots of wildlife and beneficial natural features. So, whatever the season, we should all try to get out into gardens more, observe the plants and nature around us, and feel the benefits.” “The National Garden Scheme has been championing the health benefits of garden visits since it first opened 609 in 1927.

This latest report builds on that work and illustrates what many gardeners and garden visitors know, that being in a garden really is good for you,” says George Plumptre, National Garden Scheme chief executive.

To find your perfect garden visit ngs.org.uk, download the National Garden Scheme app or pick up a copy of the free NGS Sussex booklet 2024 available from February. To enjoy the wealth of beautiful National Garden Scheme gardens opening in West Sussex this spring visit https://ngs.org.uk/west-sussex-spring-gardens/

The wellbeing benefits of visiting National Garden Scheme gardens in winter by Environmental Psychologist, Dr Emma White can be found on the National Garden Scheme website: https://bit.ly/NGSWinterWellbeingReport

The National Garden Scheme Founded in 1927 by the Queen’s Nursing Institute to raise funds for community nursing means that gardens, health and community are at the heart of what we do at the National Garden Scheme.

Every ticket bought, every garden visited, and every cake and cup of tea savoured translates into millions of pounds in donations not only to some of the UK’s best loved nursing and health charities but to garden charities and community projects too.

In 2023 we made donations of £3,403,960. Beneficiaries include Marie Curie, Macmillan Cancer Support and Parkinson’s UK.

For more information visit https://ngs.org.uk Kate Harrison NGS West Sussex Publicity Officer