72 Hours in the Garden of England

From vineyard-covered hillsides and historic gardens to ancient parkland, wildlife-rich wetlands and charming market towns, Kent offers some of England's most beautiful landscapes. This three-day itinerary takes you through the very best of the Garden of England, combining scenic walks, award-winning food and drink, unforgettable vineyard experiences and unique countryside stays.

Day One: Vineyards, Villages and the Kent Downs

Begin your escape in the picture-perfect village of Chilham, one of Kent's most beautiful rural destinations. Framed by timber-framed cottages, a historic square and rolling countryside, it's an idyllic introduction to the Garden of England.

Just outside the village lies Domaine Evremond, the pioneering vineyard created through a partnership between Champagne Taittinger and UK wine specialists Hatch Mansfield. Set amongst gently rolling slopes, the vineyard offers tours and tastings that showcase why Kent has become one of England's premier wine-producing regions. As the vines take on autumnal hues, it's a particularly beautiful time to visit.

For lunch, head to The Woolpack Inn, a charming village pub that fully embraces its connection to the nearby vineyard. Guests can enjoy Kentish wine by the glass or bottle alongside a menu of seasonal dishes showcasing locally sourced ingredients. If you're looking to stay overnight in this corner of Kent, the inn's boutique bedrooms even include rooms named after the neighbouring wine estate.

Spend the afternoon exploring the breathtaking Kent Downs National Landscape, a region of rolling chalk hills, hidden valleys, ancient woodlands and spectacular viewpoints. Whether you choose a gentle countryside stroll or a longer hike, you'll quickly understand why this area is considered one of the county's greatest natural treasures. Nearby viewpoints around Wye and the Devil's Kneading Trough offer some of Kent's most memorable panoramas.

Make time for a visit to Brogdale Collections, home to the National Fruit Collection. Wander through orchards filled with hundreds of varieties of apples, pears, cherries and plums, a living reminder of Kent's rich agricultural heritage and the origins of its Garden of England nickname.

Stay
The Woolpack Inn, Chilham
Bloom Stays countryside retreats within the Kent Downs

Day Two: Gardens, Vineyards and the Weald of Kent

After breakfast, travel into the heart of the Kent Weald, a landscape of winding country lanes, vineyards, historic estates and world-famous gardens.

Start the morning at Sissinghurst Castle Garden, one of the country's most iconic horticultural destinations. The romantic garden rooms, seasonal planting and sweeping views across the Weald make it a must-visit for garden enthusiasts. Continue to nearby Great Comp Garden, a hidden gem renowned for its colourful borders, woodland walks and outstanding collection of salvias.

For lunch, stop at The George Hotel, Cranbrook, a heritage coaching inn dating back to the 1300s. Following an extensive refurbishment, the hotel combines contemporary comfort with centuries of character, making it a wonderful base from which to explore the surrounding countryside.

The afternoon is all about discovering some of Kent's most celebrated landscapes and estates. Explore the magnificent grounds of Penshurst Place, where avenues of ancient trees lead visitors along the estate's original historic approach road before revealing spectacular views of the medieval house. The estate enjoys a fascinating history, having served as a hunting lodge for Henry VIII before being gifted by Edward VI to Sir William Sidney in 1552. The Sidney family continues to care for the house, gardens and parkland today.

From here, you can choose to explore the towering trees and scenic trails of Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, enjoy waterside walks around Bewl Water, or discover the award-winning gardens and beautiful lake at Hever Castle, childhood home of Anne Boleyn.

As the day unfolds, make your way into Kent Wine Country around Biddenden and Tenterden, where some of England's finest vineyards are located. While many visitors choose to stop for a tasting, staying overnight among the vines offers a truly immersive experience.

Biddenden Vineyard's The Grape Escape is one of Kent's most distinctive countryside escapes. Set amongst the vines at Kent's oldest commercial vineyard, the retreat offers guests the unique opportunity to stay at the heart of a working vineyard surrounded by peaceful rural scenery. Wake to views across the estate, spend the day exploring the vineyard and tasting award-winning wines, then relax as the sun sets over the Kent countryside.

It is the perfect choice for couples looking for a romantic getaway or anyone wanting to experience the slower pace of life that makes this part of Kent so special. The retreat also places visitors within easy reach of nearby vineyards including Chapel Down and Gusbourne, making it ideal for a dedicated wine-focused break.

If you're not staying at Biddenden, nearby The Vine Inn, Tenterden offers another excellent overnight option. Located in the centre of one of Kent's most attractive market towns, it combines traditional character with contemporary style and is perfectly positioned for vineyard-hopping adventures.

Round off the day with dinner at Chapel Down's acclaimed restaurant, The Swan at Chapel Down, or enjoy a relaxed evening back at The Vine Inn.

Stay
Biddenden Vineyard's Wine Lovers' Retreat
The Vine Inn, Tenterden
The George Hotel, Cranbrook

Day Three: Wildlife, Wide Open Skies and Coastal Countryside

For your final day, head north to the Isle of Sheppey and one of Kent's most remarkable landscapes, Elmley Nature Reserve.

Spread across 3,300 acres of protected wilderness, Elmley offers a completely different side of the Garden of England. Expansive skies, salt marshes, grazing meadows and wetlands create an ever-changing landscape that is home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife throughout the year.

Guests choosing to stay in Elmley's beautifully designed shepherd's huts and cabins gain access to the reserve outside normal opening hours, allowing them to experience the landscape at its most magical. Early mornings often bring misty sunrises and abundant wildlife activity, while evenings deliver spectacular sunsets and exceptional stargazing opportunities thanks to the reserve's remote location.

The accommodation has been thoughtfully designed for year-round comfort, with woodburners, radiators, cosy Romney Marsh wool blankets and private fire pits creating the perfect setting for an autumn countryside escape. Breakfast hampers, picnic lunches and hearty suppers featuring locally sourced ingredients can all be delivered directly to your accommodation, allowing you to spend more time exploring the reserve.

During your visit, enjoy peaceful walking trails, guided wildlife experiences and nature-focused wellness treatments. Keep an eye out for birds of prey soaring overhead and the thousands of wildfowl that arrive during autumn and winter.

If you'd like to explore beyond the reserve, nearby Faversham is packed with independent shops, historic streets and excellent food and drink options. Alternatively, visit Whitstable for fresh seafood and coastal views, or spend time discovering the magnificent cathedral city of Canterbury.

Before heading home, enjoy a memorable final meal. Seafood lovers should book a table at The Sportsman in Seasalter, while Faversham offers excellent dining at The Sun Inn, plus the chance to discover Kent's brewing heritage at Shepherd Neame Brewery, Britain's oldest Brewer.