IDYLLIC gardens which are steeped in wartime history will be opened up to the public next weekend.

An open day will be held at the Gardens of Easton Lodge giving visitors a chance to learn about the role it played in the First and Second World Wars.

It’s an excellent opportunity to get to grips with history in the centenary of the end of the First World War.

During the Second World War it was at the heart of RAF Great Dunmow with the runway and hangars on one side and surrounded by Nissen hut accommodation.

The USAAF’s 386th Bomb Group were stationed there until 1944 and RAF Squadrons 620 and 190, flying Stirling bombers, from 1944 until 1945.

Visitors will be able to learn about the gardens’ history, from information stalls and the guided tour and there will also be military and civilian vehicles from that time.

Weather permitting, Dunmow Museum will present material from its USAAF 386 Bomb Group archive.

The Royal British Legion will be attending and there will be free children’s activities.

The talented song duo, Perfect Vintage, will return to the gardens and sing classic songs.

In July the grade II listed site is always colourful, but the heatwave has had a huge impact on the lawns and grass areas and new planting.

Nevertheless, the historic Italian Garden is filled with displays of roses, Salvia, Heleniums and phlox, while the walled kitchen garden’s flower border is bright with its new dahlia bed.

Hot and cold drinks will be available, as well as locally sourced bacon and cheese rolls and the gardens’ renowned homemade cakes.

Visitors are also welcome to bring their own picnics.

The gardens are open from 11.30am until 5pm on Sunday, 22 July, with last entry at 4pm.

The entrance fee is £4.50 for adults and there is free entry for children under 16 and well-behaved dogs on leads.