Broadview Gardens at Hadlow in Kent (SE of London) has the national collection of hellebores so would be well worth a visit. It is open under the National Gardens Scheme (www.ngs.org.uk)on 21 February. The NGS site will also list other winter gardens so should be a useful starting point. Many famous gardens (such as Sissinghurst) close during the winter months, so do ensure that you check opening times.

The Royal Horticultural Society's garden (www.rhs.org.uk) at Wisley is open all year round and has many extensive plant collections and a good nursery too. Beth Chatto's Garden is also highly recommended and is open throughout the year (http://www.bethchatto.co.uk/gardens.html)

Enjoy planning your holiday!

Here is a link that might be useful: Broadview Gardens

Incidentally if anyone else needs help, advice or information on English Gardens, especially in South East England please do get in touch on david.joe@virgin.net