When you think of spring, what do you think of? Personally, we think of all the vibrant colours and radiant flowers that you can see, especially here in Kent, The Garden of England.
From the early signs of snowdrops and daffodils, to the beautiful colours of blossom starting to decorate Kent's gardens. We've got a list of all the spring flowers you may discover here in Kent, because there really is no better time to visit the Garden of England than during the spring…
Riverhill Himalayan Gardens
Open: 13th March - 27th October 2024
Expect to see spectacular sights of beautiful flowers over at Riverhill Himalayan Gardens. Well known for their stunning Bluebell Woods which you can witness during their Bluebell Festival as well as their bluebell themed craft fair which will be full of handmade, unique items, including fine art, jewellery, ceramics, glass work and quilting. Riverhill also holds a historical collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, so there’s plenty of opportunities to visit and capture some beautiful shots of the gardens.
Hever Castle Dazzling Daffodils
For the ideal spot to capture those magical spring views, head to Hever Castle and embark upon a self-led tour of the castle grounds. Or, you can join one of their free daily tours with Johnny Walkers, master grower of walkers bulb and winner of 36 RHS gold medals during the week (Mon-Fri) and the weekend tours will be led by Hever Castle’s gardeners. With 80,000 daffodil bulbs set to bloom across Hever Castle’s gardens this spring, it’s a place where you’re sure to witness the exquisite bloom.
18th - 24th March 2024
Canterbury Cathedral
The stunning grounds of Canterbury Cathedral are home to beautiful, tranquil gardens where you can soak up the atmosphere and the historic surroundings. From the Memorial Garden and Friends Garden to the Herb Garden and the Water Tower Garden, there’s history around every corner.
The Kent Garden Show
Head to the Kent Garden Show this May to see 300 exhibitors display their gardening goods for sale, including garden furniture, water features, garden sheds and buildings, tools, sculptures, pots, BBQs, metal work and much more! With a craft pavilion, food hall, brass band and children's rides to keep your little ones entertained. You’ll also find the floral marquees with their stunning floral displays including medal winners from Chelsea.
25th, 26th & 27th May 2024
Kent Wildlife Trust
Did you know Kent Wildlife Trust have open gardens, offering the opportunity for visitors to wander at their own leisure around the stunning Kent gardens that have been planted and maintained to encourage and benefit wildlife?
Discover how you can contribute towards a Nature Recovery Network, whether that be volunteering, or simply visiting the Nature Friendly Open Gardens to gather inspiration on how to start your own wildlife pond, create a wildflower section, plant fruit and vegetable beds, and lots more!
@Rachel Warren (National Trust)
Chartwell & Emmetts Garden
A visit to Chartwell is a must when it comes to seeing beautiful spring gardens! From the Rose Garden designed by Lady Churchill, offering stunning views of the surrounding estate and countryside to the Walled Garden surrounded by apple orchard and wildflower meadow, with walls built by Winston Churchill.
Witness a glorious display of colours at Emmetts Garden this spring. You’ll spot the early bloomers such as snowdrops, crocuses and daffodils in the early months of spring, then will come the pretty bluebells that will cover the woodlands like a blue blanket.
The Gardens at Leeds Castle
Discover the stunning historical gardens at Leeds Castle, with unique scents and sights to treat your senses all year round. Visit The Lady Baillie Mediterranean Garden Terraces to spot beautiful architectural plants, and rest on a bench to soak in the atmosphere and view of the Great Water and acres of parkland. There’s also the Culpeper Gardens which is coated in bright blooms, home to local wildlife, sure to make you stop and take in the picturesque views and the magnificent castle. And we mustn’t leave out the Princess Alexandra Gardens, with vibrant colours of daffodils, narcissi and anemones alongside the River Len.
Scotney Castle
Scotney Castle is home to a beautiful garden boasting stunning views with a moat, quarry garden, woodland glade, hidden walkways, heather-thatched icehouse, a Victorian boathouse, and expansive views across the wider estate. In spring and early summer you're sure to spot the colourful azaleas, rhododendrons and kalmia so what better time to visit!
Credit: Nas152_
Walmer Castle
Discover a glorious mix of formal and informal garden styles at Walmer Castle this spring. Admire the herbaceous borders, colourful planting and impressive cloud hedge in the striking Broadwalk Garden or relax in the tranquil setting of the Queen Mother’s Garden. With a mix of colourful displays and cool shaded spots, the gardens at Walmer Castle provide the perfect setting for a day out in the fresh air.
Monkton Nature Reserve
Monkton Nature Reserve is the perfect place for a relaxing outdoor walk, taking it easy or for learning. There are various activities throughout the year for children including a brass rubbing trail, a dinosaur quiz trail, a hide away hunt and more!
Biddenden
The Best Way To See The Spring Flowers
Some may say that the best way to see Kent is by bicycle. UK Electric Bike Centre offer electric bike tours of Kent and allow for some amazing views along their country routes. We believe their Garden of England Route offers the best views and on the way back to the bike centre you will pass Biddenden Vineyards where cyclists are welcomed for a drop-in tasting.
Ranscombe Farm Reserve
Known as an important site for rare wildflowers, Ranscombe Farm Reserve is Parklife's largest nature reserve in England. Home to stunning landscapes and beautiful ancient woodlands which offers spectacular views across the countryside. A visit here in spring should not go a miss, with stunning bluebells very to be admired.
