The Gardens of Easton Lodge will offer a glimpse into wartime history with an open day this month.
On Sunday, July 16, visitors will be able to view an array of water lilies while learning about the gardens' role in the world wars.
The Earl of Warwick helped train local men at Easton Lodge in the run-up to WWI, and in 1942, during WWII, an airfield was built in the parkland surrounding the stately home, while the gardens became a place of relaxation for the airmen and women stationed there.
Those serving with the USAAF, RAF and WAAF were able to enjoy Harold Peto's 1902 Italian garden, which is designed around a central 100-foot lily pond.
The pond originally had 20 different varieties of water lily, which are said to symbolise beauty, purity and enlightenment.
Since the Gardens of Easton Lodge Preservation Trust's restoration of the balustrade in 2021, visitors have once again been able to enjoy the lilies from up close, as the airmen and women did in wartime.
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Visitors will be able to enjoy the walled kitchen garden, the Japanese-inspired glade and the Stirling Memorial Walk, which commemorates RAF servicemen and women based at the wartime airfield in Easton Park.
There will also be a range of history and other plant and craft stalls alongside 1940s music and entertainment.
The 1940s information and atmosphere has been cultivated thanks to the trust's archivists, Saffron Walden Museum, a First World War history group, military vehicles and vintage cars.
Cherie and Brian from Perfect Vintage will provide historical banter, alongside their classic performance of Vera Lynn and other period music.
Children can take part in a specially prepared trail, see the statue of the Countess of Warwick's pet elephant, Kim, and climb the reconstruction of the countess's treehouse.
Hot and cold refreshments will be provided by the trust's volunteers.
The gardens are open from 11am to 5pm, with last entry at 4pm.
Entrance costs £5.50 for adults when booked in advance, and £6.50 on the gate, with children going free.
Tickets can be booked through the gardens' website at https://www.eastonlodge.co.uk/ or on the gate.
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