Spring is just around the corner, and most Brits are rejoicing at the idea of basking in the sunlight and spending fun days out, especially if they involve activities that can be done for free.

And if you are tired of struggling to find a fun day out that doesn't involve just walking around your nearest park, look no further.

The National Garden Scheme opens over three thousand gardeners' doors to the public, all over the UK, for the enjoyment of both plant lovers and casual visitors. This includes multiple types of locations, from historical sites to private houses.

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To plan your perfect day out, simply have a look at the National Garden Scheme's website, which has a handy and intuitive interactive map with the option to filter your search by postcode and region, to find your ideal new or returning garden.

Aside from the participating gardens that are available for regular visits, the scheme also plans special open events - fun opportunities to take part in guided tours, watch talks from experienced professionals, or have a bit of wine, tea and nibbles for a small fee.

Every visit helps support the charities the National Garden Scheme helps fund, including nursing and health institutions across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands - through small purchases like souvenirs or your afternoon cup of tea.

A post on the scheme's website highlights some of their picks for this upcoming Easter holiday.

Lincolnshire's Woodlands garden is known for its crevice garden, Cheshire's Poulton Hall is worth a family visit thanks to its themed areas (inspired by stories like Excalibur and Robin Hood), John's Garden in Staffordshire is rich in intricate design, and Little Court in Hampshire boasts an enviable kitchen garden and beautiful butterflies.

If you'd like a history lesson alongside your garden views, pay a visit to 400-year-old Easton Walled Garden in Lincolnshire or Nettlestead Place's 13th century manor house in Kent.

The scheme also recommends The Old Vicarage in West Sussex for anyone visiting with children, as the little ones are in for a treat with the endless woodland paths, a Japanese garden, and a waterfall. Similarly, Derbyshire's 10 Chestnut Way offers homemade teas and a display of fun, quirky sculptures.

The best ones for April, according to the official page, include Feeringbury Manor in Essex, Sarsden Glebe in Oxfordshire, Kencot Gardens in Gloucestershire and Crawley Gardens in Hampshire.

In London, some gardens that are usually inaccessible to the public are also opening their doors (or gates?) to visitors at discounted rates or for free. These include the London Open Gardens event, which takes place on June 6 and 7, featuring 100 gardens across the capital.

Scotland has its own special scheme, offering entry to 432 gardens up north.