Exclusively for Mail on Sunday readers, discover the secrets of English country gardens with Sarah Raven
Few things in life can compare to the joy of strolling through an English country garden in midsummer when roses, lavender and hydrangeas are put on spectacular display.
Our amazing four day journey includes visits to world class examples in Kent and Sussex and a special event with gardening expert Sarah Raven.
Ideal for anyone with a passion for gardens and gardening, this trip offers so many highlights including the shrubs and perennials of the Great Comp Garden, the famous Wisteria and the Manor House of Scotney Castle, the World Garden of Plants of Lullingstone Castle and Great Dixter’s Tropical Garden.
You will also have the opportunity to meet Sarah Raven in her own garden, Perch Hill in East Sussex, where she will give a private talk and you will enjoy a lunch made from the plot’s produce.
Water wonders: The Mail’s magnificent four-day trip on Sunday visit the gardens of Scotney Castle (pictured)
The tour gives you the opportunity to admire the colorful flowers of Sissinghurst (pictured).
OUR SPECIAL GUEST
They are accompanied by Sarah Raven
Since the publication of her first book, The Cutting Garden, Sarah Raven has been at the forefront of introducing a new way of productive gardening. She is a teacher, presenter and host of the podcast Grow, Cook, Eat, Arrange.
Another highlight will be an early bird visit to Sissinghurst, one of the finest and most admired flower gardens in the world.
reasons to book
Sarah Raven Master Class: During a private event at her own home and garden, Perch Hill, Sarah will tell the story of 25 years of 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 pointing out plants and features and answering your questions. Your tour is followed by a two-course lunch made with fresh produce from the garden.
Sissinghurst visit for early risers: Sissinghurst Castle is the ancestral home of Sarah’s husband, historian and broadcaster Adam Nicolson, and is known 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.
Magnificent Gardens: Each day of your holiday includes guided tours of beautiful gardens, from the beautiful 7 acre Great Comp Garden and historic manor house at Lullingstone Castle, one of England’s oldest family estates, to the famous English country garden of Pashley Manor and garden author Christopher Lloyd in Great Dixter.
Stylish hotel stay: Stay at a four star spa hotel throughout close to the center of Royal Tunbridge Wells. The hotel, originally built as a country house in 1766, is set in 14 scenic acres and features 70 stylish rooms, an award-winning restaurant, swimming pool, steam room and spa.
