The FIRST tints of autumnal colours have arrived in Kingston Lacy's Japanese Garden according to the National Trust.

The Wimborne country house has begun to prepare for Autumn as the first colours in its Japanese garden have begun to change from greens to autumnal yellows and reds.

A favourite time of the year for Kingston Lacy senior gardener, Steve Candy, the National Trust property has said it will offer guided tours around the Japanese garden on September 25 and October 30.

Steve said: "Autumn is one of my favourite times of the year in the Japanese Garden – there is nothing quite like enjoying the vibrant colours of the acers as the leaves start to turn.

“It’s always a joy to share the garden with visitors at this time of year, and we’re just at the start of the season so are looking forward to several weeks of great colour. Let’s hope for fair weather to prolong the display.”

Both dates will have tours at 11am and 2:30pm and will last an hour and will focus on how Japanese are used to maintain the garden.

For a more authentic experience, the tour can be booked with a Japanese tea-tasting experience.

Tours are free and for more information visit Kingston Lacy's website.