Learn the secrets of country gardens with Sarah Raven
FEW things in life can compare to the joy of strolling through an English country garden at the height of summer, when roses, lavender and hydrangeas are all spectacularly on show. Our superb four-day trip includes visits to world-class examples in Kent and Sussex, plus a special event with gardening expert Sarah Raven.
Ideal for anyone with a passion for gardens and gardening, this trip has so many highlights, including the shrubs and perennials of Great Comp Garden, Scotney Castle’s famous wisteria and moated manor house, Lullingstone Castle’s World Garden of Plants and the tropical garden at Great Dixter.
What’s more, you will have the chance to meet Sarah Raven at her own garden, Perch Hill in East Sussex, where she will give a private talk, plus you’ll enjoy a lunch from the plot’s produce.
Another highlight will be an earlybird visit to Sissinghurst, one of the best and most admired flower gardens in the world.
REASONS TO BOOK
Sarah Raven masterclass: During a private event at her own house and garden, Perch Hill, Sarah will tell the story of its 25-year transformation from a ramshackle former dairy farm into 90 acres of inspirational planting. You will then have a guided tour of the garden with the gardeners, who will point out plants and features of interest and answer any questions you may have. Your tour will be followed by a two-course lunch featuring fresh produce from the garden.
Early-bird Sissinghurst visit: Sissinghurst Castle is the ancestral home of Sarah’s husband, historian and broadcaster Adam Nicolson, and is renowned for its beautiful gardens. They were designed by Adam’s grandmother, Vita Sackville-West, and her husband Harold Nicolson in the 1930s. You will enjoy a special tour before Sissinghurst opens to the general public.
Glorious gardens: Each day of your holiday includes tours of wonderful gardens, from the beautiful seven-acre Great Comp Garden and the historic manor house at Lullingstone Castle, one of England’s oldest family estates, to Pashley Manor and garden writer Christopher Lloyd’s celebrated English country garden at Great Dixter.
Stylish hotel stay: You will be based throughout at the four-star Spa Hotel close to the centre of Royal Tunbridge Wells. Set in 14 acres of picturesque grounds, the hotel, originally built in 1766 as a country mansion, has 70 stylish bedrooms, an award-winning restaurant, swimming pool, steam room and spa.