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Dame Ellen Terry, purchased Smallhythe Place. She lived in the 16th-century half-timbered house until her death in 1928. Now it is a National Trust-run museum for her unique collection of stage costumes and theatrical memorabilia. In summer, plays are performed in the Rose Gardens or in the thatched Barn Theatre. Near Royal Tunbridge Wells, with its interesting shops

and decorative Pantiles, is Lamberhurst and the romantic Scotney Castle. This ruined 14th-century moated castle is a breathtaking visual treat while the gardens accommodate the rare heather-thatched ice house. In spring, Scotney sits amid the finest display of bluebells in Kent. Not too far away is Marle Place Gardens at Brenchley.

Privately owned, this Wealden garden is ten acres of formal planting as well as woodland and orchards, a haven for wildlife and bees. It features a Victorian gazebo, an Edwardian rockery and a beautiful, walled fragrant garden, which in spring onwards is a joy to the senses. The restored 19th-century gatehouse protects an amazing collection of orchids and the mosaic terrace and ornamen- tal ponds really do have to be seen to be believed. Situated close to Scotney and the magnificent Sissinghurst Castle, Marle Park Gardens and Gallery is one of the seven wonders of the Weald – a group of attractions all close together. Also off the beaten track is Hever, tucked between Penshurst and Edenbridge. Hever Castle, the childhood

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