The Capability Brown Festival, made possible by National Lottery players, is ensuring the birthday of the creator of the quintessential English garden does not go unnoticed.

From 'Capabili-teas' to opening to visitors for the first time, many of the 250 landscapes shaped by Brown are celebrating his legacy.

Go back to roots

A man of mystery, Brown’s exact birthdate is unknown. He was however baptised on 30 August 1716 in Kirkharle, Northumberland. It was there he began his illustrious career as an apprentice gardener.

Events have been taking place throughout the summer at Kirkharle Courtyard, thanks to another HLF grant, and August promises to be even better.

A flower festival and a series of concerts, talks and theatre will take place, including appearances from TV presenters Alexander Armstrong and John Grundy. Guided walks will allow groups to explore the landscape and the lost plans Brown had for it. A bike ride will also see people cycle from Kirkharle to his final resting place in Fenstanton.

More information about the events at Capability Brown’s birthplace can be found on the Kirkharle website.

Visit palaces, castles and hidden gems

Brown’s surviving landscapes include Blenheim Palace. Downton Abbey’s Highclere Castle, Milton Abbey and Stowe Gardens.

Capability or not Capability? Discover a Capability Brown landscape or event near you using this interactive map. 

Show off your cake-ability

No birthday is complete without cake. The Capability Brown Festival has launched a competition to find the best cake inspired by the great man and his landscapes.

Fun or serious, elaborate or simple, anyone over the age of 18 can enter Brown’s Birthday Bake. Just upload an image of your creation to the Capability Brown Festival Facebook or Twitter page using #brownsbirthdaybake by 21 August. The winning bake will be unveiled on the 30 August.