(cont)

through restored woodland where we’ve planted magnolias and azaleas. These nestle amid 200 year old copper beeches and chestnut trees and create lovely walks that families can enjoy for years to come.”

During our visit, The Duchess was busily putting the finishing touches to the 2008 programme of events, hosting a VIP press launch to introduce the season’s forthcoming programme, working with Lincoln’s Chris Marino to create concerts with pop stars McFly and the Sugababes, opera diva Katherine Jenkins and world-famous Abba tribute act Bjorn Again.

Next on her to-do list, however, was the most important job of the lot; collecting the couple’s five children from school and taking off a few hard-earned weeks before Belvoir Castle opens to the public for the season.

“It’s an opportunity to spend time with the children and enjoy being a mum. We all enjoy hacking around the estate, and for me, it’s a real novelty to put on a pair of jodhpurs rather than a designer suit but great to spend some quality time with them!”

With the season’s preparations complete and the family geared up for a busy season welcoming visitors to the castle, it’s been an industrious few months at Belvoir Castle, but a period which will yield dividends not just for the estate and its preservation, but for locals visiting throughout the season too.

“We’ve really worked hard all season long.” Says Emma. “There’s no such thing as a quiet period here, but everyone has put so much effort into planning the season ahead. We can’t wait to welcome visitors to the Castle!”

Belvoir Castle is open from this month until October. For more information on events and to confirm availability call 01476 871002 or see www.belvoircastle.com.

What’s On... at Belvoir Castle this Summer…