Members of the HPS Rutland Group were kindly invited to join the Rippingale and District Gardening Club for a July morning visit to the gardens at Burghley House. As well as viewing the public gardens and hearing about their 500 year old history, care today including environmental challenges, and plans for development as the gardens evolve, Head Gardener Joe Whitehead took us “behind the scenes” for a fascinating tour of the private and parkland areas beside Capability’s Lake. Joe also talked about the heritage of the trees and their care. A particular highlight being the multi-stemmed Cryptomeria japonica. Thank you to Joe for his interesting and amusing tour.