A COMMUNITY of Benedictine Monks is looking forward to welcoming visitors to a St Michael's Hospice Open Gardens event on Sunday, July 30.

Enjoy a Sunday afternoon stroll through the gardens of Belmont Abbey, along with the chance to wander through the Abbey itself.

You can also take the rare opportunity of exiting through the church's West doors.

'The Monastic gardens here are used by many monks to spend time in,' said Father Nicholas from the Belmont community of monks.

'We all like to take a wander through the gardens.

'They are also enjoyed by people when they come on retreat from all over the country.

'People love being able to sit out there.'

The extensive gardens at Belmont Abbey, which is just off the A465, feature rose beds, a herb garden, seating, a water feature and manicured lawns.

There are wonderful views of the Abbey from the gardens, and of the surrounding countryside.

'The gardens have all the elements of a traditional cloister garden, elements that go back to the Middle Ages,' said Brother Alistair.

'We will also have a video running in a corner of the church, giving people a history of Belmont Abbey.'

The gardens will be open to explore between 2pm - 5pm on Sunday, July 30.

Tickets are £5, payable on the door, with parking available.

There will also be tea, coffee and cake available in the parish centre.