Step into the Garden of England
From its stunning shoreline to rolling chalk downlands, there is plenty to discover in the Garden of England. From orchards to oast houses, castles to coast, Kent is brimming with gorgeous landscapes and inspirational gardens. Discover the magnificent and exotic World Garden at Lullingstone Castle, follow in the footsteps of Darwin as you explore the grounds at Down House, or marvel at the azaleas and rhododendrons blooming at Riverhill Himalayan Gardens.
With so many delightful gardens, it is hard to narrow down the options, but here is a small selection of all that Kent has to offer.
Penshurst Place and Gardens
Bursting with vivid colour and texture, Penshurst Place and Gardens is spectacular as it comes into bloom, with wisteria, iris, clematis and many more. With over a mile of yew hedges forming a series of enchanting garden rooms, including an elegant rose garden and orchard, there is plenty to explore at Penshurst across the seasons.
- Disabled access: Partial access
- Dogs: Not allowed
- Single visitor discount: No
- Refreshments: Light refreshments
Information about Penshurst Place and Gardens in our 2-for-1 scheme
Visit the Penshurst Place and Gardens website for further details
Riverhill Himalayan Gardens
Boasting impressive views out across the Weald of Kent, these beautiful historic gardens are both creative and unusual. Contemporary sculpture sits happily alongside picturesque terraces and charming walled gardens. You can explore the fragrant Rose Walk, uncover the delights of the Edwardian Rock Garden or even try to find your way out of the fiendish Himalayan Hedge Maze.
- Disabled access: Partial access
- Dogs: Allowed on leads
- Single visitor discount: Yes
- Refreshments: Light refreshments
More information about Riverhill Himalayan Gardens in our 2-for-1 scheme
Visit the Riverhill Himalayan Gardens website for more details
Down House
Many of Charles Darwin’s great scientific breakthroughs can be traced back to the gardens at Down House. Spend the day exploring his beloved gardens to uncover remnants of his early experiments. From the regal mulberry tree, great house meadow dotted with beech, cherry and walnut trees to Darwin’s very own greenhouses, this is an enchanting garden that is sure to captivate and inspire.
- Disabled access: Partial access
- Dogs: Not allowed
- Single visitor discount: Yes
- Refreshments: Light refreshments
More information about Down House in our 2-for-1 scheme
Visit the Down House website for further details
Leeds Castle
The gardens of Leeds Castle are home to a rich profusion of flowers. The Princess Alexandra Garden is carpeted with daffodils, narcissi and anemones, in spring, and is bursting with azalea and rhododendron blooms, in May and June. These captivating gardens perfectly frame the romantic castle, which lies beyond the colour and fragrance of the gardens. There is also a picturesque cottage garden and a Mediterranean terrace.
- Disabled access: Full access
- Dogs: Not allowed
- Single visitor discount: No
- Refreshments: Light refreshments
More information about Leeds Castle in our 2-for-1 scheme
Visit the Leeds Castle website for further details
Lullingstone Castle and the World Garden
The origin story behind the World Garden at Lullingstone Castle is almost as impressive as the collection of plants themselves. Horticulturalist Tom Dyke was kidnapped in the Columbian jungle for nine months, it was during his long days held in captivity that he began to plan his spectacular world garden. This captivating walled garden boasts thousands of plant species from across the globe, all laid out to form a map of the world. Discover a plethora of rare horticultural delights.
- Disabled access: Partial access
- Dogs: Not allowed
- Single visitor discount: No
- Refreshments: Light refreshment
More information about Lullingstone Castle and the World Garden in our 2-for-1 scheme
Visit the Lullingstone Castle and the World Garden website for further details
Hever Castle and Gardens
Home to over 5,000 rose bushes, it is easy to imagine the beauty that lies within the award-winning 125 acres at Hever Castle. Classical statuary studs the charming Italian garden, while the elegant English Rose Garden houses a giant topiary chess set. Planted with thousands of spring bulbs and bedding plants, Hever boasts a dazzling display of plants across the seasons. Follow a tranquil stream through peaceful woodland or explore the ornamental lake by rowing boat.
- Disabled access: Partial access
- Dogs: Permitted on lead
- Single visitor discount: Yes
- Refreshments: Light refreshment and hot food
More information about Hever Castle in our 2-for-1 scheme
Visit the Hever Castle website for further details
