Things to do this Summer

Now that a number of venues are able to open albeit with restrictions here are a few suggestions for starting to get out and about this Summer.

RHS Gardens

The Royal Horticultural Gardens (RHS) are now open along with their plant centres so why not have a day out at the lovely gardens at both Wisley and Hyde Hall – both within a reasonable drive from our area. Both gardens are open to visitors with advance bookings only and you will need to pre-book a tome slot in advance of your visit from their website – see rhs.org.uk. RHS members get free access to the gardens and can be accompanied by one guest.

National Trust

Many of the national Trust gardens are now open to visitors but you will need to book your visit in advance even if you are a member. We are fortunate there are some lovely NT gardens within a short drive of Sevenoaks with Emmetts near Ide Hill, and 

Scotney Castle near Lamberhurst well worth a visit. Emmetts is an interesting hillside garden with year round features, and Scotney has a romantic garden with a 14th century moated castle – plus some excellent woodland walks through the estate.

Great Dixter

One of the great gardens in the South East and was the family home of gardener and gardening write Christopher Lloyd for over 40 years. A garden you need to visit several times a year. As with all gardens at present you will need to pre book tickets online – greatdixter.co.uk

Kent Wildlife Trust Nature Reserves

If you don’t fancy going to the trouble pre booking tickets to see a garden why not take a walk through one of the Kent Wildlife Trust’s Nature Reserves in our area. They offer both a bit of exercise and a guaranteed sight of some of natures most beautiful wild flowers including many species of orchids. See their website for details – kentwildlifetrust.org.uk. There are four reserves close to Sevenoaks at Polhill Bank, Hewitts Chalk Bank, Downe Bank and Bough Beech.