DISCOVERKENT
SPRING GARDEN HIGHLIGHTS with the National Trust
FROM NEW DISPLAYS ACROSS THE GARDEN AT IGHTHAM MOTE , TO 4,000 NEW WALLFLOWERS AT BATEMAN ’ S AND UNMISSABLE SPRING SHOWSTOPPERS AT EMMETTS GARDEN , NATIONAL TRUST GARDENS ACROSS KENT AND EAST SUSSEX ARE FILLED WITH COLOUR THIS SEASON .
EMMETTS GARDEN IGHTHAM MOTE
Meanwhile blossom is one of the most exquisite delights of an English spring . Fountains of white or cream blossom seem to appear from nowhere at places like Chartwell , Scotney Castle and Sissinghurst Castle Garden , often accompanied by a delicate fragrance .
In Japan ‘ Hanami ’, or ‘ flower viewing ’, is all about enjoying the fleeting beauty of blossom trees as they come into bloom . Join in the UK ’ s very own blossom celebration in the run up to the National Trust ’ s # BlossomWatch day on 23 April 2022 , where you can share your pictures of beautiful blossom on social media .
Chartwell , near Westerham
Daffodils cover the grounds – look out for the double-headed Winston Churchill daffodil in the Walled Garden . As you walk up to the house magnolias , rhododendrons and azaleas line the pathway .
The Eddie ’ s White Wonder stands tall over the croquet pitch in springtime . In May , bearded iris bob along the Iris Walk including varieties similar to those favoured by Clementine Churchill herself .
The place for bluebells meanwhile is the surrounding woodland , with the forest floor of Mariners Hill fully carpeted with blue .
Emmetts Garden , near Westerham
The rhododendrons and azaleas are unmissable at Emmetts Garden , with 130 different varieties providing ongoing interest throughout the spring season .
48 cherry trees are in blossom next to the wildflower meadow , surrounded by a sea of pink , red and black tulips that make for a stunning sight .
More unique specimens to be found are the handkerchief tree and the wedding cake tree , both distinct and unusual trees that look wonderful at this time of year .
The ‘ wow ’ moment at Emmetts however is always the English bluebells , with the whole woodland completely transformed .
Please check pre-booking requirements on the website before visiting .
Ightham Mote , near Sevenoaks
There are lots of new areas of planting to see including mid and late-season daffodils , grape hyacinths , Russian snowdrops and snowflakes . From early May the alliums arrive , signalling the transition to early summer .
In the orchard new apple and other fruit trees have been planted . There ' s a new fruit , vegetable and herb border underway along the west wall to boost spring blossom , summer production and autumn fruiting .
New and renovated paths around the north pleasure grounds and around the south lake will make it easier for buggies and wheelchairs to enjoy stunning views back to the house , as well as the colours , sights and sounds of spring .
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