10 of the Best Gardens to Visit in Kent

Hever Castle Gardens

Transport yourself to a bygone era at Hever Castle Gardens, where Tudor-style architecture, a mesmerizing maze, and enchanting rose gardens create a visual journey through history.

Explore the expansive Hever Castle Gardens sprawling across 125 acres. The Italian Garden showcases the Pompeiian Wall and classical statuary, embodying timeless beauty. In the English Rose Garden, catch the scent of over 5,000 rose bushes.

Pause at the Loggia, overlooking the 38-acre lake, a quiet spot before discovering cascades, grottoes, and fountains. Walk through the Tudor Garden, Blue Corner, or Rhododendron Walk, where changing seasons bring varying colours and interest throughout the year. Discover tranquillity and simple beauty in Hever Castle Gardens' unembellished charm.

• Situated in Hever, not far from Tonbridge and Royal Tonbridge Wells

Sissinghurst Castle Garden

Designed by Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson, Sissinghurst Castle Gardens is a horticultural masterpiece, featuring iconic spaces like the White Garden and Rose Garden.

Sissinghurst Castle Gardens, a creation of the famed Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson, stands as a testament to their passion for horticulture. The iconic White Garden, with its ethereal ambiance, and the meticulously manicured Rose Garden, filled with a myriad of blooms, are key highlights. The gardens' design and plant selection make it a must-visit for enthusiasts seeking inspiration and beauty in every corner.

• Situated in Sissinghurst, between Ashford and Royal Tunbridge Wells

Chartwell

Chartwell Gardens, an ode to Sir Winston Churchill, captivates visitors with its historic charm, scenic terraces, and the iconic Golden Rose Avenue.

Chartwell Gardens, the former home of Sir Winston Churchill, offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. As you stroll through the gardens, you'll encounter the essence of Churchill's legacy. The scenic terraces boast a mesmerizing array of blooms, providing a tranquil backdrop to the iconic Golden Rose Avenue. Visitors are invited to explore the very landscapes that inspired one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century, making Chartwell Gardens a must-visit for history enthusiasts and garden lovers alike.

• Situated in Westerham, not far from Sevenoaks

Mount Ephraim

Step into the timeless beauty of Mount Ephraim Gardens, a secluded paradise tucked away in the heart of the Kentish countryside. Join us on an exploration of this haven, where every corner tells a story of nature's artistry and the careful hands that shaped it. From the Rock Garden established in 1910 to the Millennium Rose Garden planted in 2000, each feature invites you to uncover the rich tapestry that makes Mount Ephraim a horticultural gem.

Nestled in Kent's tranquil embrace, Mount Ephraim Gardens unfolds its timeless charm. The Rock Garden, an early 20th-century masterpiece, features Japanese-inspired pools bursting with spring bulbs and azaleas, reaching peak brilliance in May. Adjacent, the hand-dug Lake, created in 1912 by unemployed Welsh miners, serves as a peaceful retreat, a constant companion to contemplative wanderers.

Added in 1990, the Water Garden meanders gracefully from the lake overflow, while the Little Wood extends an invitation to picturesque views of Hernhill's parish church. These nuances, alongside the Miz Maze, Arboretum, Topiary and Herbaceous Border, and the Millennium Rose Garden, create a narrative that's both timeless and ever-evolving—a living legacy within the serene landscape of Mount Ephraim Gardens.

• Situated close to Faversham, with easy access from Canterbury and Whitstable

Great Comp Garden

Great Comp Garden is a horticultural paradise, offering a diverse collection of plants and trees in a charming setting that beckons plant enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Discover the tranquility of Great Comp Garden in Sevenoaks, where 7 acres unfold with an array of beautiful and rare plants, evolving with the seasons. Home to the Italian Garden, intriguing ruins, woodland walks, The Old Dairy Tearooms, and Dyson’s Salvias, it's a haven for garden lovers. Spring brings Magnolias, Azaleas, and Rhododendrons paired with Hellebores and bulbs. Summer introduces the warmth and vibrancy of one of Europe's most extensive Salvias collections. As autumn sets in, ornamental grasses punctuate the borders, creating a captivating landscape that shifts gracefully with nature's rhythm.

• Situated between Aylesford and Sevenoaks

Westgate Gardens

Nestled along the River Stour, Westgate Gardens in Canterbury offers a picturesque retreat with flowerbeds, riverbanks, and the historic Westgate Towers creating a perfect blend of nature and history.

In the heart of Canterbury, Westgate Gardens unfolds along the banks of the River Stour. Flowerbeds in full bloom, riverside pathways, and the imposing Westgate Towers create a picturesque landscape. The historic ambiance combined with the soothing sounds of flowing water makes Westgate Gardens a serene haven for both locals and visitors alike.

• Situated in Canterbury

Goodnestone Park Gardens

Goodnestone Park Gardens, with its romantic walled garden and stunning parkland, provides a delightful experience for visitors seeking a blend of history and natural beauty.

Discover the diverse beauty of Goodnestone Park Gardens. The Arboretum and Gravel Garden boast a varied collection of trees and plants, offering a serene atmosphere. Move to the structured elegance of the Parterre and Terrace, where vibrant blooms harmonize with immaculate designs. Explore the Woodland Garden's enchanting canopy, creating a peaceful sanctuary. Lastly, the Walled Garden showcases meticulous care for a range of plants. Each section contributes to the unique charm of Goodnestone Park Gardens, providing a rich and varied experience for visitors.

• Situated in Goodnestone, close by to Canterbury and Sandwich

Lullingstone Castle Gardens

Step into the timeless tranquility of Lullington Castle Gardens, dating back to the days of Domesday. This peaceful landscape effortlessly combines green serenity with its historic surroundings.

Discover the captivating fusion of history and nature at Lullingstone Castle Gardens. The medieval castle provides a dramatic backdrop to the carefully curated World Garden, showcasing plants from around the globe. The tranquil surroundings and harmonious coexistence of the castle and gardens make this destination a true escape for those seeking a unique blend of horticultural wonder and historical richness.

Situated near Orpington, with close links to the M25 and M20

Godinton House & Gardens

Godinton House welcomes visitors to a captivating estate with a rich history and an array of meticulously curated gardens.

Godinton House is known for its diverse gardens. The walled garden, with its historical significance, stands as a testament to the estate's past. Nearby, the rose garden and herbaceous borders contribute to a visually appealing landscape. A lily pond serves as a serene focal point, offering a calm setting. The Italian garden introduces a touch of continental style, and the wild garden allows nature to take its course in an untamed manner. Each area within Godinton House contributes to its overall charm, providing a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

Situated on the outskirts of Ashford

Leeds Castle & Gardens

Leeds Castle Gardens, blending history and natural beauty, offer iconic spaces like the Culpeper Garden and Lady Baillie Garden, providing a stunning backdrop to the iconic castle.

Nestled in the heart of Kent, Leeds Castle is a testament to timeless elegance with a history dating back to the 9th century. This iconic fortress-turned-residence seamlessly blends architectural splendor and natural beauty across meticulously manicured grounds. From the stunning Tudor façade to the tranquil moat, every corner exudes regal allure. Explore lush gardens, captivating exhibitions, and grand interiors for an immersive journey through the ages. Leeds Castle stands as a symbol of enduring charm, making it one of England's most iconic landmarks.

• Situated near Maidstone with close links to the M20 and A20