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Herbaceous Borders at Pashley Manor Gardens
by Kate Wilson
Stately Homes & Gardens in Tunbridge Wells
Royal Tunbridge Wells is surrounded by some of the finest stately homes and castles in Kent and Sussex, many with connections to well known figures from history.
The reputation and beauty of the Garden of England is no more apparent than in the gardens surrounding Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Only a short drive from the centre of Tunbridge Wells lies the Salomon Estate. This Victorian house with glorious gardens and museum is an absorbing lesser known attraction that tells the story of three generations of the Salomon family. Did you know they were one of the first families to have electric lighting in England? Come and explore the science theatre too!
From the renowned landscaped gardens of Leeds Castle to the moat and grand Italian Gardens at Hever Castle - each historic building and garden has something unique and wonderful to offer, and all within a 45 minute drive from Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Some of England’s most famous gardens such as Sissinghurst Castle Gardens and Great Dixter are here, also hidden gems such as the delightful garden for all seasons, Hole Park, as well as the spectacular national conifer forest at Bedgebury Pinetum.
For a taste of the grandeur of past times, enjoy the Elizabethan gardens at Penshurst Place; spectacular displays of tulips at Pashley Manor, and daffodils and azaleas at Scotney Castle; carpets of bluebells and fragrant roses at Groombridge Place.
Chiddingstone Castle is a fascinating historic house which has evolved since Tudor times. With its galleried, oak panelled Great Hall and other stately rooms housing the internationally renowned collections of Ancient Egyptian antiquities, Japanese Art and Craft, Royal Stuart and Jacobite memorabilia as well as antique books.
Further afield, a spectacular moated medieval manor house is situated in a rural valley. Ightham Mote has lakes, peaceful gardens, stunning views across the Weald and quiet woodland to wander through.
Every year, the National Garden Scheme organises open days for visitors to view beautiful gardens that are usually kept private.
In aid of charity, a small donation is asked for entry.
Often in exemplary settings as part of private and historic homes, here's your chance to be an admirer of unique personal garden projects.
Sometimes you can buy a cup of tea and a slice of homemade cake!
Use the search box to the right to explore individual attractions further and also browse our accommodation for more ideas on extending your stay in the lesser known pretty corners of the region.
Use our Gardens of Tunbridge Wells Tour with map and stunning images to plan your inspiring trip round the beautiful blooms in the borough.
External links
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Number of items: 48
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Pashley Manor Gardens
Type
Garden
Ticehurst, Wadhurst
At Pashley you will discover 11 acres of beautiful borders and vistas - the culmination of a lifetime of passion for gardening and an admiration of the tradition of the English country garden.
Spa Valley Railway
Type
Steam Railway
Royal Tunbridge Wells
Spa Valley Railway takes you on a picturesque railway journey through through the beautiful Wealden countryside from Tunbridge Wells to High Rocks, Groombridge and Eridge
Tunbridge Wells Circular Walk
Type
Waymarked Trail
Tunbridge Wells
The Tunbridge Wells Circular Walk is a 27.5 mile (44.3km) route that explores the wide variety of fertile and beautiful countryside around Royal Tunbridge Wells, a town within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the borders of Kent and East Sussex.
Chalybeate Spring
Type
Spa
Royal Tunbridge Wells
Visitors came to see and be seen in fashionable Tunbridge Wells, but above all to 'take the waters'.
Scotney Castle
Type
Garden
Lamberhurst
Not one but two houses! Victorian country house and ruined 14th century moated castle set in one of England's most romantic 'picturesque' style gardens.
Cranbrook Union Windmill
Type
Windmill
Cranbrook
The tallest surviving smock mill in the British Isles, measuring 72 feet to the top of the cap.
Grosvenor and Hilbert Park
Type
Parkland / Woodland Garden
Royal Tunbridge Wells
Grosvenor and Hilbert is the town's oldest public park and still contains some original historic features, such as the lake and grottoes or 'dripping wells'. There is an exciting and challenging play area which is well worth a visit.
Groombridge Place and The Enchanted Forest
Type
Garden
Royal Tunbridge Wells
Groombridge Place near Tunbridge Wells offers a fun day out for all the family with award winning gardens, and the Enchanted Forest, with its giant tree swings and other exciting thrills to discover.
Trinity Theatre and Arts Centre
Type
Theatre
Royal Tunbridge Wells
Located in a converted Grade A listed church by the noted architect Decimus Burton, Trinity Theatre hosts a varied programme of art exhibitions, theatre, films, dance, opera and music productions.
High Rocks
Type
Natural Feature
Tunbridge Wells
Acres of breathtaking sandstone rocks interlinked with bridges provide a scenic walk in a tranquil woodland setting.
Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest
Type
Forest
Goudhurst
Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest is a magnificent place for healthy outdoor activities.
Assembly Hall Theatre
Type
Theatre
Royal Tunbridge Wells
The Assembly Hall Theatre is a 1,000 seat theatre offering an eclectic programme with everything from family shows to classical music.
The Queen's Hall Theatre
Type
Theatre
Cranbrook
Providing entertainment in the heart of the Kent Weald.
Parish Church of King Charles The Martyr
Type
Church / Chapel
Royal Tunbridge Wells
The first permanent building in Tunbridge Wells. Stunning plasterwork ceiling by Sir Christopher Wren's Chief Plasterer.
Merriments Gardens Ltd
Type
Garden
Hurst Green
The gardens at Merriments in the rolling Sussex countryside never fail to delight.
Bewl Water
Type
Lake / Reservoir
Lamberhurst
Set in the heart of the High Weald and surrounded by 800 acres of outstanding natural beauty, Bewl Water is the perfect place to watch the seasons change and to enjoy some healthy family fun for all ages.
Bowles Outdoor Centre
Type
Adventure Park / Playground
Eridge Green
A day and residential outdoor centre with accommodation offering rock climbing, skiing, snowboarding, canoeing and development courses and fun!
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