There aren’t many things about being from Kent that I feel smug about. I’ve spent most of the last three years in London trying to hide the fact that the ‘Garden of England’ is my home county. However, if there is one thing that I do love about Kent, it’s the abundance of National Trust properties, from Ightham Mote to Scotney Castle. And now, one such estate has been named on a list of the most beautiful places in Europe, alongside the likes of Lake Como in Italy, and Salzburg in Austria.
Sissinghurst Castle Garden is one of Kent’s most impressive gems. Described by visitors as ‘romantic’ and whimsical’, it was praised by travel experts from Travel + Leisure magazine for its ‘lawns and terraced colours of wildflowers.’ Judge Jim Strong even went as far as to say that a trip to Sissinghurst is a ‘treat to the soul.’
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Compared to some of the other destinations featured in Travel + Leisure’s list — which includes Corfu, Greece and Lofoten Islands, Norway — Sissinghurst Castle Gardens might seem like a surprising choice. However, its gardens’ beauty is also paired with the site’s fascinating history — a combination that draws people in.
While the property dates back to Saxon times, it was couple Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson that purchased the property in 1930, and transformed the garden into one of the most interesting and beautiful corners of Kent. As of today, the grounds attract upwards of 150,000 visitors annually, making it one of the National Trust’s most beloved properties.
Things to spot when visiting Sissinghurst Castle Garden
Across nine acres of land the garden is divided into four primary ‘rooms’, each with its own unique story and historic significance. The Rose Garden is, naturally, full of roses. Notable mentions go to the Gallica roses and Damasks. In the Cottage Garden, you’ll find an abundance of orange, red, and yellow flowers. The Herb Garden is home to a feast of both herbs and vegetables, described by one visitor as ‘wonderful’ and ‘a privilege.’ And finally, the Nuttery contains a wild orchard of Kentish cobnut trees, surrounded by terracotta pots and spring flowers.
One particular review from GardenTours.com recommends visitors take a stroll along Moat Walk, with its collection of azaleas and specimen trees.
How do you get to Sissinghurst Castle Garden from London?
Sissinghurst is open all year round, bar Christmas Day. However, previous visitors recommend going in June or July, when the roses are at peak bloom.
If you’re travelling from London, the easiest way to get to Sissinghurst Gardens is to drive. It takes approximately two hours to drive to the gardens and there is free parking available on-site. If you opt to get the train from the capital, your best bet is travelling from London Charing Cross to Staplehurst and then getting a taxi to the property. A return train ticket in May will cost approximately £26, while a taxi fare might be as much as £25.
Admission is free for National Trust members and £16-£18 for adults (prices vary by season). The garden is typically open Friday to Tuesday, 11am to 5:30pm during the main season, which runs from March to October.
Visiting Sissinghurst is a real treat. In fact if you asked my parents, I assure you they’d confidently say that Barcelona has nothing on the garden’s roses.
Another Kent garden you should visit this Summer
Sissinghurst Gardens might have made it onto a list of the 20 most beautiful places in Europe, but there’s one destination in Kent that I think also deserves its flowers. Hever Castle may not be a National Trust site, but as far as I’m concerned it’s one of the most magical places in the country. Having spent many summers here, I’d challenge any Londoner to take a stroll through the stunning Italian Gardens, or pause by the lake, and not feel ten times better.
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