ONE of the top gardening events in the region’s calendar has opened its doors today.

The Harrogate Autumn Flower Show has started today (September 13) and will run until Sunday (September 15) at Newby Hall.

This year’s show is set to ‘savour the flavours and beauty of autumn by celebrating the many ways to preserve the fruits of our labour for enjoyment all year round’.

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One of the show’s highlights is set to be the Pick and Preserve stage which will showcase sustainable living, waste-free and thrifty recipes, and ideas on how to preserve the pick of the harvest for both edible and floral plants.

Visitors are also invited to the harvest kitchen where homemade jams, pickles, chutneys, oils, vinegars, and wines will be showcased alongside flowers and foliage drying.

There are also two giant vegetable competitions set to take place – the 2024 NEHS Giant Vegetable Competition and National Onion Championship – the latter of which saw a record-breaking 9kg onion bring in the crowds last year.

Gareth Griffin showcasing his award winning onion at last year's showGareth Griffin showcasing his award winning onion at last year's show (Image: PA) Other highlights include the Grand Floral Pavilion, which will showcase over 5000 blooms, and the Nature Reclaims Floral Art event where Newby Hall’s principal rooms will be ‘consumed by the natural world’ with moss, ferns, and flowers set to decorate the columns and interiors.

Show Director Nick Smith said: “We are thrilled to host the Autumn Flower Show at Newby Hall again this year. It’s a beautiful location that truly embodies the spirit of horticulture, and we have an incredible lineup of exhibitors, installations, and live stage events.

"We can’t wait to welcome both new and returning visitors to what promises to be a magnificent autumn celebration!”

Pick and Preserve Leafy CouturePick and Preserve Leafy Couture (Image: Provided) Visitors can also expect programme of live talks and demos across four live stages from tips in growing your own produce and delicious recipes in The Great Northern Larder, The Grow! stage with demos from celebrity floral designer Jonathan Moseley and gardening wisdom from the Grow! Team, horticultural experts will share their passion for nature on The Human Gardener stage.

Tickets are available to purchase online at www.flowershow.org.uk; an adult ticket is £28.00, with under 16s and parking being free.

Admission to the show includes access to Newby Hall’s gardens and children’s adventure playground plus the chance to enjoy food and drink and specialist shopping.