The beautiful drive towards Cotswold charmer Chipping Campden is just the start of a dream afternoon out at Kiftsgate Court Gardens.

As you pull up on the gravel drive approaching a picture of grandeur, the charm stakes rise a few notches, until you step into the floral masterpiece of a garden and, taking in the staggering views across to the Malverns, have to remind yourself it’s really not polite to leave your mouth hanging wide open.

And then, once ensconced in Midsummer Night’s Dream worthy vision, the court itself forms a breathtaking Georgian facade backdrop. Golden pillars rise above a cacophony of colour as the dream unfolds along winding paving stone pathways and striking linear walkways.

Fountains trickle in the breeze, surrounded by swaying grasses and vibrant alliums and agapanthus. There are surprises around each corner; from the yew-lined, mirror-like modern pool masterpiece, dyed a black hue to reflect the sky and wild meadow sections that wind gently towards the spectacular tulip tree avenue and sculptural artwork.

But the best surprise of all is the lower garden. As you descend the steep banks, beneath towering Monterey pine trees, the Vale of Evesham shows itself with rolling green fields leading the eye towards the magnificent Malvern Hills in the distance.

A half-moon pool, with inviting steps down into the green water, is the centrepiece with a pretty little folly tucked in one corner and an (always amusing) ha-ha below full of bleating sheep.

But it’s the planting that is truly the star of the show. On a summer’s day, it sings with all the hues of the rainbow. Magnificent 6ft lilies sway in the breeze, looking nothing less than regal with their tiger striped markings. Fragrant roses abound, including the Kiftsgate rose and the glorious yellow border blending trees, shrubs and flowers of all shapes and sizes is utterly mesmerising.

The gardens are open Monday to Wednesday from midday until 6pm. The team rooms close at 4pm.

Admission is £9 for adults with no concessions.

Visit www.kiftsgate.co.uk for full details.