The best gardens to visit in January 2014 The adults are stuffed with stuffing, the children are jumped up on chocolate. Getting out of the house is desirable - in some cases an urgent necessity - in the aftermath of Christmas. Plenty of gardens offer a wealth of festive activities, from night-time strolls to activity workshops and winter planting advice. Kew Gardens is offering a daily "after dark" experience, from 4.45pm to 10pm, until January 4. An illuminated trail through the arboretum highlights the magic of the wintry landscape, with lights and displays. There is also a boutique Christmas village, with stalls, music and rides, so you can have a mulled wine while the children are entertained. Recommended by Telegraph columnist Judith Woods. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Surrey. Adults £12.50, children £8 (020 8332 5655). At Gibside, Tyne & Wear, there are many antidotes to Christmas schmaltz. On Boxing Day, the gardens are open from 10am-4pm, so you can walk off the turkey. Then, from December 30-January 3, is Winter Adventure Week (11am-3pm daily). Children will be entertained with plenty of outdoor activities and the indoor play hall, while parents relax in the café. Adults £6.75, children £3.60 (01207 541820). Admire a view Many gardens will be shut on New Year's Day, but Prior Park Landscape Garden, Somerset, will be open from 10am to 3pm. Enjoy a bracing walk and the fine views of Bath. Adults £5.65, children £3.15 (01225 833422). Pick up expert advice On January 4, 11am-1pm, join the garden rangers at Dunham Massey, Cheshire, for a guided walk. Learn about the work they do during the winter, and glean tips for your own plot. Free with garden entry, adults £8, children £4 (0161 941 1025). ...and visit a garden for free Waterperry Gardens, near Wheatley in Oxfordshire, began as a teaching centre and is now a visitor favourite. There are ornamental displays, plants for sale, courses and teas. This January, the gardens are open free of charge - take advantage for a New Year visit. Daily, 10am-5pm, from January 3 (01844 339226).