Gardens at Luton Hoo Hotel will give a fascinating insight into the landscaping designs of Lancelot 'Capability' Brown at an open day later this month.

Many of Brown's original 18th century designs can still be seen on the 1,065-acre estate, and a painstaking 10-year restoration and conservation project is underway.

The open day is taking place on Sunday, May 18, from 11am until 4pm. Highlights will be the magnificent terraced formal gardens with a centrepiece fountain that is back in full working order for the first time in 15 years, and the Victorian grass tennis court where the original pavilion, which can be rotated to follow the sun, is undergoing full restoration.

Luton Hoo was a landmark project for the designer, who was responsible for more than 170 gardens surrounding the finest country houses and estates in Britain. Brown was hired by two successive owners of the estate and Luton Hoo was one of his largest and most significant projects, second only to Blenheim Palace in terms of size and investment.

Entry to the open day costs £5 and refreshments will be available.