insideKENT Magazine Issue 72 - March 2018 | Page 43

Knole
Knole Owned today by the Sackville family( who still live in the house), the National Trust manage the building and grounds and it’ s open for everyone to visit. With a long, varied history dating back to 1456, Knole has famously been the home of Henry VIII( who took it from Thomas Cranmer, archbishop of Canterbury). It passed to the Sackville family in 1566, when Elizabeth I gave it to her cousin, Thomas Sackville. It is what is known as a‘ calendar house’ as it has 365 rooms – as well as 52 staircases, 12 entrances and seven courtyards.
Emmetts Garden Found in Ide Hill, just minutes from the town centre, Emmetts Garden is six acres of gorgeous plants, shrubs and lawns, and is a wonderful way to while away the time enjoying the beauty that man and nature combined can bring to the world.
Riverhill Himalayan Gardens A treat for the whole family, this fantastically fun garden is full of excitement from world-class British sculpture, links with Darwin, den building, secret pathways, superb views over the Downs, and of course the elusive yeti! Try to spot him as you enjoy the garden. Afterwards, you can take tea in the Riverhill Café – everything is homemade and the ingredients are locally sourced.
Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve Just outside of the town itself is the stunning Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve. This tranquil, lovely spot is perfect for taking a stroll on a sunny day – or not so sunny day if the mood strikes, meandering along the flat stretches of pathway. There are many events that take place here including listening to the dawn chorus and bat walks. Entrance is free( although donations are welcome), and there is a small shop, museum, and snack hut.
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