Spring has sprung (ish) and in true British form, as soon as we see a hint of daffodil, we’re shivering outside sipping wine, having barbecues and slathering on the fake tan so we can wear one of 50,000 midi dresses we’ve bought. (Just me?! Seriously, I can’t stop. Send help.)
And while this time of year can be a bit iffy in the weather stakes, it’s also prime time for Kent looking rather ‘scuse the pun – blooming lovely. It’s when the Garden of England really comes into its own, and in between the lambs ‘aleaping and the flowers ‘aflowering, it’s really a very nice place to be. (Except if you live anywhere where they’re spreading muck at the moment…thank god it’s not warm enough to have the windows wide open.)
With several bank holidays on the horizon, now’s the time to get out and about and experience some of the spring delights Kent has to offer – and handily, I’ve rounded up some of the prettiest places to visit. Beauty guaranteed, sun, not so much…
Brogdale Farm
A huge fruit farm situated in Faversham, at Brogdale you’ll find blossom a-plenty. Until the end of April you can take part in their Japanese Hanami picnics too, where you can sit under the cherry blossoms, explore the Japanese culture exhibition and even have a go at origami. I visited for their Hanami Festival and the blossoms were beautiful (but they ran out of Yaki Soba which was kind of sad – at least if you book onto the picnic experience you’ll be better prepared!)
Hole Park
Hole Park in Rolvenden is one of my favourite places to visit in the springtime, because their stunning woodland gets a violet makeover – everywhere you look there’s a carpet of bluebells. Keep an eye on their website where they have a bluebell barometer…when it hits 5, it’s time to see them in their peak!
Riverhill Himalayan Gardens
Not only do these seasonal gardens just outside of Sevenoaks boast the most beautiful views of the weald, they also have a pretty stunning selection of spring flowers – from bluebells to blossoms, they have it all. And really nice cake in the cafe too.
Penshurst Place
Penshurst Place‘s gardens look stunning at any time of year (their Head Gardner Tony Wiseman is some kind of horticultural wizard), but in spring there are so many blooms to admire, including their absolutely beautiful array of daffodils and tulips.
Bedgebury Pinetum
It’s probably better known for its autumnal colours and greenery, but this time of year, Bedgebury comes alive with beautiful blossoms, and it’s well worth a visit to get your spring fix in.
So there you have it…five pretty places to visit in Kent this spring. Grab a picnic (and probably a brolly) and get springing!
girlaboutkent.com 