There is plenty to see and do at this dog-friendly National Trust site
The vibrant gardens near Sevenoaks date back to the late 19th century.(Image: Marathon/Wikimedia Commons)
Spring is now well underway and with plenty of glorious sunshine on the way, plus some record breaking temperatures, it’s the perfect time to get out and explore Kent’s amazing green spaces. One of the nation’s favourite pastimes during this time of year is bluebell spotting and there are countless amazing places to do just that across the Garden of England.
That said, few places boast quite the scenery and scale of adventure as the magical Emmetts Garden near Sevenoaks. This spell-binding National Trust site is found on an Edwardian estate that was once owned by Frederic Lubbock.
As well as becoming a much-loved family home, the hillside estate also became a plantsman’s passion – something that is just as evident today as back when the flowers were first laid out in the late 19th century. Standing on one of the highest spots in Kent, the estate offers panoramic views over the unspoilt Weald as well as some great walking opportunities.
Dog owners will also be pleased to hear that the site welcomes pooches to come and explore as well. Four-legged friends can sniff around all outdoor areas of the garden and woodland but must be kept on a short lead while visiting.
Spring and summer are the best times to visit the garden when the flowers are in full-bloom.(Image: KentLive)
Water bowls can be found outside the Visitor Centre, Discovery Cabin and Old Stables Tea Room for when your dog needs a drink. For the little ones, there is a wild play area to encourage some imaginative outdoor fun, complete with a good amount of apparatus that kids can climb and play all over.
Families can unwind with a much-needed cuppa and a tasty bite to eat at the Old Stables Tearoom. Menu items include a range of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, soup, sausage rolls and scrumptious cake.
Back to the awe-inspiring gardens themselves now, these were largely influenced by William Robinson, an Irish practical gardener and journalist whose ideas about wild gardening sparked the movement that led to the popularising of the English cottage garden and were key to promoting the woodland garden. It contains many rare trees and shrubs from across the world, and visitors can explore the rose and rock gardens, take in the views and enjoy shows of spring flowers and shrubs.
The bluebells totally transform the National Trust site between April and May.(Image: Getty Images/Kayco)
Now is a perfect time to stop by Emmetts Garden as between April and May, the woodland floors transform into a blue carpet as the bluebells reach full bloom. The woods hold SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) status owing to the native English bluebells that flourish within them, affording the flowers special protected status.
As well as parking and toilets, Emmetts Garden has a second-hand bookshop in its visitor centre, a gift shop selling seasonal National Trust items for the home and garden and a plant shop. The attraction hosts a range of exciting events for the whole family to enjoy throughout the year too.
There are plenty of rare plants and eye-catching features to see as you explore.(Image: Michael Garlick/Geograph)
Between July 11 and September 6, Emmetts will be hosting its Summer of Play event which promises “fun and games for all the family”, further details on which are due to be announced soon. The outdoor theatre is due to open for the summer season in the near future, with performances of Shakespeare classics, as well as family favourites such as Alice and Wonderland and The Jungle Book.
Visitors are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets and picnics to enjoy whilst watching but are advised that performances will continue in wet weather so to come prepared. Dogs are not permitted at these outdoor theatre events however.
Be sure to stop by the Old Stables Tearoom for some refreshments.(Image: Michael Garlick/Geograph)
Previous guests have praised the attraction for its impressive flower displays, welcoming staff and family-friendly atmosphere. A recent visitor remarked on TripAdvisor: “Emmetts is a beautiful location which is very family friendly. The blossom trees, tulips and bluebell woods are stunning at the moment.
“Great play area for kids and games lawn with old school games to play. Areas for picnics. The grounds are steep if you want to walk around, but the woods are beautiful. You can easily do the whole place in 3/4 hours including lunch or stay longer if you want to sit and enjoy your surroundings.”
Standing on one of the highest spots in Kent, the estate offers some of the best views in the county.(Image: KentLive)
Open daily 10am to 5pm, entry is free for National Trust members. For non-members, entry between March 1 and October 31 is priced as follows:
Adults (18+) – £15Children (ages 5 to 17) – £7.50Under 5s – freeFamilies (two adults and up to three children) – £37.50One adult and three children – £22.50
Find further details and full booking information here. Learn about all the other wonderful spots where you can see bluebells in Kent this spring here.
Find out more about things to do in Kent with our free What’s On email HERE
Comments are closed.