Harefield Gazette

PLENTY TO DO RAIN OR SHINE

-

WALKS AND PICNICS FOR SUNNY DAYS

Fancy going long-haul without the hassle? Head for a walk at Emmetts Garden in Kent to see rare plants from around the world and the stunning Internatio­nal Garden Photograph­er of the Year exhibition (free with admission).

Tackle the woodland trails of nearby Toys Hill and be rewarded with bluebells and spring colour. Pop back to Emmetts’ café after for a well-earned pit-stop.

For a more curated experience, a picnic in the royal pleasure grounds of Claremont Landscape Garden in Surrey offers picture perfect views of a serpentine lake, Camellia terrace and huge grassy amphitheat­re. The rhododendr­ons and azaleas are stunning in May.

A Thames-side spot at the site of the sealing of the Magna Carta will give your picnic some gravitas. Runnymede in Berkshire is a fascinatin­g place for contemplat­ion or wandering, with artworks, memorials and wildflower meadows.

INDOOR TREASURES FOR RAINY DAYS

Instead of taking to the sofa with a book on a rainy day, Rudyard Kipling fans might want to visit Bateman’s, the writer’s 17th century home and sanctuary. The rooms remain much as he left them, with oriental rugs and artefacts reflecting his strong associatio­n with the East. New for this year, is a special display and film celebratin­g Kipling’s poem ‘The Glory of the Garden’.

Inspired by the baroque palaces of Europe and nestled in the South Downs, Petworth House displays some of the finest art and sculpture collection­s in the National Trust. The grand state rooms were designed to display the family’s wealth, taste and royal collection­s. Prepare to be awed.

Described as ‘the palace of palaces’, Osterley in west London is another impressive mansion worth a visit. The Robert Adam interior is one of the finest and most complete, with delicate decoration­s, friezes and furniture designed specifical­ly for each setting.

 ?? ??
 ?? ?? Emmetts Garden ©National Trust/ Chris Jonas
Emmetts Garden ©National Trust/ Chris Jonas

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United Kingdom