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Emmetts Garden , near Sevenoaks
Emmetts is famed for its vibrant autumn colour and exotic plant and tree collection . The majestic Katsura toffee trees , among the country ’ s largest , have an intoxicating scent of sweet candyfloss . The South Garden is also home to an impressive collection of hardy exotic trees and shrubs offering an array of red , pink and orange colours .
Try the estate walk through the arboretum for some of the best of Emmetts ’ autumn colour . Make time to pause by the viewpoint for stunning panoramic scenes out over the Weald of Kent .
Elsewhere , the rock garden is packed with 40 different species of alpine plants interspersed with heathery banks , autumn bulbs , winding paths and a lily pond . Those looking for something a little different from their autumn display will be enchanted by the many varied fungi species dotted around the grounds .
“ Our exotic tree collection comes into its own in autumn . The bright red of the winged spindle ( Euonymus alatus ) and golden leaves on the Japanese maple ( Acer palmatum ) are a true wonder to see . Ripe , vibrant berries are abundant too , including the regal purple berries on the prickly heath ( Gaultheria mucronata ) and sirenread of the tree Cotoneaster ( Cotoneaster frigidus ) fruit .” Alan , gardener
Garden opens daily , 10am to 5pm . Normal admission applies .
EMMETTS GARDEN IN AUTUMN © National Trust Images / David Sellman
Chartwell , near Westerham
Fiery colours take over the autumn borders and woodland surrounding the home of Sir Winston Churchill . The lakes reflect majestic trees , creating shimmers of burnt orange , yellow and gold .
A beautiful Cryptomeria Japonica ( Japanese Cedar ) grows above the Golden Orfe ponds . At nearly 170 years old , it ’ s been a steady backdrop to world events including when the Churchill ’ s lived here . It ' s easy to imagine Churchill painting here in his chair , the landscape his muse .
In the orchard , just outside the Walled Garden , branches are laden with apples – including some that take the name of the great wartime leader himself . The majority of these are cooking apples , soon to be juiced .
Inside the Walled Garden the annual pumpkin display is in full throes come October . The pumpkins hang in individual nets , to ensure the moist soil will not cause them to rot prematurely .
“ Autumn is all about the beech trees in the woodland as they turn stunning shades of gold and yellow . For best viewing , head to nearby Toys Hill where a large collection of beech trees all together can be found - known as a beech hanger - which combine into a fantastic display of colour .” Fraser , area ranger
Garden opens daily , 10am to 5.30pm . Normal admission applies .
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CHARTWELL LAKE © Chris Jonas