It may feel as though Christmas was just a few weeks ago and we’re still holding our breath waiting for the arrival of snow that’s been promised, but even with the persistence of wet weather and frosty mornings, spring flowers have already been spotted at some of Kent’s much loved attractions.
From the early signs of snowdrops at Leeds Castle to the beautiful colourful gardens starting to decorate Penshurst Place and Gardens, we've got a list of all the spring flowers you may discover here in Kent because there really is no better time to visit the Garden of England than during the spring…
The snowdrops are already making an appearance here in Kent. With so many places for you to visit to see them we’ve put together our top places for spotting snowdrops in Kent. Don't waste any time, though, because these beautiful blooms won't hang around much longer. Start spotting snowdrops
© National Trust Image/Andrew Butler
Known for being one of the first signs of spring, the dazzling daffodil is always welcomed this time of year and brings with it the first glimpse of warmer times to come. For an afternoon among the daffodils, stroll through the beautiful gardens at Penshurst Place, take a visit to the charming Ightham Mote or the glorious grounds of Sissinghurst Castle, or stretch your legs on a jaunt to Leeds Castle.
© Charley Sales
Transport yourself to Japan when you visit Brogdale this April on a spring blossom trail. Kent has an abundance of places to get your fix of blooming blossoms this spring, like the wonderful Walmer Castle with cherry blossom in the Paddock and apple blossom in the Orchard. By the second week of May, Emmetts Garden provides a stunning display of cherry trees and tulips with views of the Kentish Weald beyond - and if you can't wait that long, Sissinghurst Castle orchards transform in rows of apple, pear and cherry trees which can be seen in all their full-bloom glory at the end of April.
Between 19th - 24th April April, be uplifted by 21,000 tulip bulbs proudly standing to attention and providing a visual feast of spring colour at Hever Castle’s annual Tulip Celebrations. Discover the history of this beautiful flower with a guided tour and be sure to take some time to tulip spot in the glorious gardens.
Hush Heath in Staplehurst is a living, breathing exhibition of some of Kent’s finest flora and fauna. This springtime lace up those walking boots and take a stroll through the pretty ancient oak woodland and thriving wildflower meadows of this 400-acre estate, before finishing inside ‘The View’ with a glass of English fizz. Alternatively, make a bee-line towards the Isle of Thanet’s coastline where you’ll find over 350 species of flowering plant, including eight species of rare orchid at Monkton Nature Reserve.
© National Trust Image/ Jonathan Buckley
It will soon be the time of the year when carpets of bluebells return to our woods, bringing a splash of colour to the Kentish countryside. Venture into the woodland at Sissinghurst Castle and be mesmerised by around 126 million individual bluebell flowers, or head into the wider estate at Chartwell to see the woodland covered with a sea of blue.
In spring and early summer you're sure to spot veils of wisteria woven in Kent's gardens. Pay a visit to the gardens surrounding the tumbling remains of the Old Castle at Scotney Castle for a moat-side view of swathes of wisteria across the ragstone walls.
Now you have seen all the beautiful flowers why not get your green fingers dirty and start crafting your own colourful paradise? Godinton House & Garden host their annual Plant Fair on the 24th April, perfect if you need some help and inspiration. Or, why not head to Belmont House & Gardens on the 2ndMay for their Spring Fair and the chance to shop for all your floral favourites?
Credit: Nas152_
The beautiful display of colour was perfectly captured at Walmer Castle by Instagram user @nas152_ in the background itself we can see the castle standing proud over its impressive collection of colourful flowers. Discover a glorious mix of formal and informal garden styles. Admire the herbaceous borders, colourful planting and impressive cloud hedge in the striking Broadwalk or relax in the tranquil setting of the Queen Mother’s garden. See the kitchen garden bursting with fresh fruit and vegetables then stroll through the wild flower meadows and shady woodland walk to the recently-restored sunken glen. With a mix of colourful displays and cool shaded spots, the gardens at Walmer Castle provide the perfect setting for a day out in the fresh air.
Credit: @Susanes
Instagram user @Susanes spotted this perfect Purpletop Vervain in Ashford, fun fact: these flowers can grow up to 24 inches in height!
Credit: @Discovering_Kent
The fields of snowdrops are in full bloom at Challock, and can be seen standing proudly in front of the church. We recommend a Sunday stroll through the village and woodland wander to really enjoy the first signs of Spring.
Credit: Abby.Sales
The Daisies of Deal have been spotted standing proud in full bloom showing their colours, thanks to Instagram user @Abby.sales for the great photo!
Biddenden
Some may say that the best way to see Kent is by bicycle. UK Electric Bike Centre offer electric bike tours of Kent and allow for some amazing views along their country routes. We believe their route from Biddenden to Sissinghurst offers the best views and the price also includes entrance to the gardens.
Monkton Nature Reserve is the perfect place for a relaxing outdoor walk, taking it easy or for learning with its field study centre. Benches around the reserve allow you to take in the views. There are various activities throughout the year for children including a brass rubbing trail, a dinosaur quiz trail, a fairy house trail and an arts and crafts box in the main picnic area. Monkton requires a membership which costs a small fee to help maintain the reserve.
For generations Quex Gardens have been enjoyed by the Powell-Cotton family and their friends. Their love of outdoor spaces is clear today in our 7 acres of historic gardens and natural woodland, with their stunning Victorian layout and landscaping.
You can enjoy the seasonal delights of Quex Gardens your way – wander through the Victorian Walled Garden and explore the greenhouses and rare cucumber pit. Glimpse birds of prey hovering in the wide open skies or stroll along the woodland walks and discover a wealth of wildlife. Or simply relax with a picnic and savour the peace and tranquillity watching the sunlight glisten on the fountain pond with its listed statues and monument.
Take a look at what's on here in Kent and discover our top events taking place here in Kent, perfect for you to explore a garden or two during the Spring season.
