STAFF and volunteers at the National Trust's Buckland Abbey are having a double celebration this summer, marking its 60th anniversary and recently acquiring a new property.

As well as a flower festival to mark the 60th anniversary of the abbey opening to the public, they are also rejoicing in the recent acquisition of a neighbouring property, which presents an exciting opportunity to open up its gardens to the public.

The purchase of the Cider House represents a milestone in the history of Buckland Abbey.

Part of the original monastic estate and reputedly the location of the oldest cider orchard in the country, the buildings, cared-for gardens and paddocks have been made into a comfortable country home since being turned into a private residence in the 1940s.

Mark Harold, director for the National Trust in the South West, said: 'We are delighted to have acquired the Cider House, enabling us to further protect the beauty and tranquility at Buckland Abbey and bring the estate back together as a whole.

'Over the next three years, in line with our national strategy, we plan to develop access to the outdoors and create visitor facilities to help everyone enjoy their time here.'

Sally Whitfield, the head of garden and estate, said: 'Words could not describe our excitement when we were told that we had acquired the Cider House. For many years we have looked over the boundary walls, thinking how wonderful it would be to own it.

'The three-acre garden at the Cider House was created by previous owners, Michael and Sarah Stone, over a 30-year period. The wonderful mixed planted borders, the roses, the large variety of trees and shrubs, as well as the delightful fruit and vegetable area, show their great passion and enthusiasm for the place.'

The kitchen garden at the Cider House is now open every day until the end of October, and the entire garden is planned to be open from spring 2012.

Sunday July 10 is Buckland Abbey's 60th anniversary of opening to the public. The flower festival — A Blooming Celebration — is being held between Saturday July 9 and Friday July 15.

Tours of the Cider House Garden will run four times daily during the week and tours are priced at £3.50 per person.