A trio of Garden Delights

Enjoy a private guided tour for up to six people in the gardens of Allington Castle which stands on the banks of the river Medway just outside Maidstone, one of three castles protecting the river. Today the castle is the private home of Sir Robert Worcester the founder of MORI opinion poll company and is not open to the general public. The estate is a haven of manicured lawns, formal beds, shrubberies, woodlands, semi-wild grasslands and ponds/lake.

Head Gardener Adrian Waters, will be your guide as you visit the main courtyard, consisting of two sets of parterres. The walls are covered with roses softening the walls. Behind the castle lies the former Tiltyard with a parterre filled with seasonal bedding /bulbs, roses, a laburnum tunnel and shrubbery. Most of the gardens are relatively new but the Italian garden was first laid out in the 1930s by Philip Tilden, Lord Conway's architect who saved the castle from ruin. Here is a classical temple, rose covered pergolas and a large fountain and basin.

The next garden opening for an exclusive viewing for two people is The Manor House, Bledlow, Buckinghamshire. Embark on a journey through the private gardens of Lord and Lady Carrington, guided by Hon Robert Carington and Head Gardener Mark Thompson. Trace the footsteps of generations past as you wander the restored gardens. Marvel at the visionary landscape designs of Robert Adams and the modern-day expertise of plantsman Sean Walter.

Immerse yourself in the splendour of the walled garden, adorned with vibrant blooms and marvel at the ancient yew tree presiding over ornamental ponds and lush herbaceous borders. Venture into the enchanting Lyde Garden, a verdant oasis named after the majestic River Lyde. Enjoy an unforgettable journey through history and horticulture, where every step reveals a new wonder and every moment is filled with the thrill of discovery.

Finally, Head Gardener Ben Pope takes you on a magical journey around a 'Secret Garden' in West Sussex which spans eight acres; the gardens have been beautifully restored by the renowned garden designed Arne Maynard and the current owners. Both formal and informal spaces are woven together with a mixture of topiary, hedges, ancient trees and old buildings. Traditional border plants rub shoulders with roses and annuals to create both a visually appealing and both a visually appealing and scented experience. At the garden’s heart is a one-and-a-half-acre walled kitchen garden bursting with inspiration for you to take away.

Also included with this tour is a two course lunch or supper for two at a nearby eatery - The Three Horseshoes. A wonderfully welcoming, old-fashioned country pub.

^{Terms and conditions: Allington Castle - The tour must be booked for a weekday between the hours of 10am – 3pm (approx. 2.5 hours duration) and is subject to availability. Valid until 4 October 2025
The Manor House - Valid Mon–Thurs (10am-3pm) May-August 2025
A Secret Garden / Ben Pope - Specific date and time to be agreed with Head Gardener Ben. Dates exclude Public Holidays and Christmas. Valid until 31 December 2025
The Three Horseshoes - Excludes drinks. Valid until 31 October 2025}