Gardens to visit


Enjoy the autumn splendour of Emmetts


CLOTHED in all its autumn glory, charming Emmetts Garden at Ide Hill, near Sevenoaks, is a riot of golden colour at this time of year. Now owned by the National Trust, the stunning six-acre hillside garden was open farmland until 1860 when the present house was built. One of the highest points in Kent, it provides spectacular


views towards the North Downs. The name “emmett” is a local word for ant and refers to the giant anthills that remained in the area until the 1950s. The house and land was purchased in 1980 by Frederic


Lubbock, a passionate plantsman. The fact that his brother was a world expert on ants may have influenced his choice. Laid out in the style popularised by Edwardian celebrity


gardener Gertrude Jekyll, the site contains many exotic and rare species from across the world. Many of the old shrubs and trees were brought down in the


Great Storm of 1987 but much of the woodland, including a magnificent 100ft Wellingtonia survived. The hurricane did bring the benefit of more light to the gardens and the National Trust has undertaken a sympathetic replanting programme. The old stables, complete with stalls, have been converted


into a tea room – the ideal place to treat yourself to a light lunch or afternoon tea. There is also a new shop with a range of gifts, souvenirs and local foods, and a large plant area selling varieties found in the garden. Emmetts provides a great natural playground for families as


well as a tranquil space to enjoy a peaceful stroll. A programme of special activities is organised throughout


the year and there are several exciting and interesting events planned for October and November.


18 Mid Kent Living For Halloween fun, take a half-term trip to discover


autumn splashes of red, yellow and gold, and find out about the garden’s other secrets. Spooks and Splashes is a free event on seven dates between October 27 and November 4. Normal admission charges apply.


On October 29, there’s a chance to hear about the devastating effects of the 1987 Hurricane, 25 years on. Archive photographs will be on display and you can hear stories about the massive clear-up from the ranger who lived and worked there. Price is £10, children £5. This year, for the first time, you can visit Emmetts in


winter with special weekend openings on four dates between November 10 and 18. After a brisk walk, head for the tea room for winter warmer offers. A children’s trail and activity will be available. (Free event, normal admission charges apply).


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