3 Beautiful Kentish Gardens to Visit This Spring

In Spring, The Garden of England is at its most beautiful. The days are starting to grow longer, the daffodils and tulips are thriving, and the trees are heavy with blossom. From Spring through to October, there are over 25 inspiring and beautiful gardens that are open to school parties and members of the public. These are places you can enjoy some rest and relaxation, as well as enjoying a spot of lunch, a delicious coffee, or afternoon tea. 

Riverhill Himalayan Gardens

Located near Sevenoaks, the Riverhill Himalayan Gardens is an oasis of calm and tranquillity. In the Spring, the gardens are known for the beautiful array of bluebells that cover the ground like a rich lilac carpet. The smell in the air is something that could never be captured in any bottled perfume. In late Spring, Riverhill is awash with the rich pinks, purples and whites of the azaleas and rhododendrons. Little ones will love hiding in amongst the bushes and creating dens. For children there is also a delightful hedge maze that they will love getting lost in. Look out for the Riverhill Yeti too - he’s a sneaky fellow! When you are tired from all the exploring, head to the Riverhill cafe, where you can enjoy some freshly ground coffee and a light bite to eat.

Goodnestone Park Gardens

Goodnestone Park Gardens are perfect for a school trip, especially if you are studying Jane Austen. Her brother Edward and his wife Elizabeth spent their married life at Goodnestone and Jane Austen was a frequent visitor to the gardens. You can just imagine Lizzie Bennet running through the blooms, with her hair flowing. There are so many different aspects to the garden that you can explore; the walled garden is exquisitely maintained, with beautiful views of the church and in contrast the woodland garden is far freer. During springtime the narcissus take over, filling the grounds with bright, vibrant colour. After your visit, you can enjoy afternoon tea at The Tea Room, which is also available for weddings and functions. 

Great Comp Garden

Great Comp Garden, again near Sevenoaks, is simply quirky and wonderful with a really original design. Over seven acres, the grounds are filled with plants, shrubs, trees, sculptures and ruins. In the springtime, the stunning colours and architectural flowers of the Magnolias are beautiful, along with the wide range of Rhododendrons and Azaleas that fill the air with scent. Great Comp is also known for its collection of salvias. Children will delight in exploring Great Comp, especially the old ruins, and they offer group bookings for school parties. The tea rooms on site are known for their delicious homemade cakes and fresh coffee, that you can enjoy indoors if it’s cold, or outside, enjoying the spectacular view. 

Kent has a wealth of gardens that looks simply beautiful in spring. When you have worn yourself out exploring, you can then grab a delicious lunch and a lovely hot cup of tea.

Kent has so much to offer, the beautiful landscape is not only home to wonderful gardens but also to breathtaking locations to inspire a love of art in young people.