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TIME AMONGST THE TREES CONT .
BATEMAN ’ S PLEACHED LIMES AVENUE IN AUTUMN © National Trust Images / Gary Cosham
IGHTHAM MOTE IN AUTUMN © National Trust Images / John Miller SISSINGHURST IN AUTUMN © National Trust Images / James Dobson
Ightham Mote , near Sevenoaks
Ightham Mote ’ s 580-acre estate is surrounded by dense , ancient trees framing breath-taking views .
Looping back to the fourteenth century manor , a turn in the garden unveils more autumnal tree treats . Maple trees , tulip trees , the Indian Bean Tree and more provide splashes of colour . The Katsura Cercidiphyllum japonicum ( toffee apple tree ) near the North Lake unleashes a scent of burnt sugar in early October . Tulip trees , maples and Euonymus shrubs also play their part in a spectacular riot of autumn colour .
There are historic varieties of apple trees in the orchard too , with the opportunity to taste and take some home to your own kitchen by donation .
“ We have three trees classed as significant due to their age or size . The Sweet Chestnut ( Castanea sativa ) is 300 to 400 years old , with nearly 700cm girth . It ’ s grown attractively twisted and gnarly through the centuries . Meanwhile the evergreen Scots Pine by the formal garden provides structure and shelter for wildlife and visitors alike . Finally , look out for the London Plane by the south lake , with its large palmate leaves that tend to yellow and then brown through the season .” Richard Burton , head gardener
Garden opens daily , 10 am to 5pm . Normal admission applies .
Bateman ’ s , Burwash , East Sussex
Autumn is the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness at the family home of Rudyard Kipling . The harvest will be well and truly underway , with damsons and plums from the orchard trees used to make treats in the tearoom .
Venture out onto the wider estate on the Kipling countryside walk . The trail loops through woodland , past rivers and across meadows , as mighty oak trees weave yellow and gold through the views across the fields . It ’ s easy to see why the landscape so inspired fairy tales and fantasy – keep an eye for pixies hidden in crunchy fallen leaves .
The Wild Garden is the focus of autumn tree colour , with ornamental trees such as Liquidamber styraciflua and European ash Fraxinus excelsior in their finest throes .
“ The Amelanchiers and azaleas are among my favourites in autumn . For those who like to reap the rewards of a plentiful harvest , the bumper crops of blackberries on the estate walks are a juicy treat .” Len Bernamont , head gardener
Garden opens daily , 10am to 5pm . Normal admission applies .
Sissinghurst Castle Garden , Cranbrook
In the estate woodland , the trees knit a canopy of yellows , browns and reds , casting an autumnal glow along the route .
Leave time to loop through the gardens , where a vibrant palette of fiery reds and golden yellows creates a spectacular autumn scene . The cottage garden is a particular delight , whilst the trees in the orchard hang low with seasonal fruits .
Head out to Park Field , where sturdy oaks light up the view back toward the tower . The 1 mile lake walk is lined with autumn colour too .
Garden opens daily , 11am to 5.30pm . Normal admission applies .
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