Scotney Castle gardens An open garden in Kent

Romantic Scotney Castle and gardens, Lamberhurst Kent, England, has 2 houses, the one at the top of the hill was built in 1837 and the other is the ruins of a medieval Castle surrounded by a moat at the bottom of the valley. Which together now make the focal point of these famous gardens. Dogs are welcome on the estate (not in the garden). Open all year round the various estate walks go through parkland, woodland and farmland and have spectacular views across the Kent country side and delightful little stone bridges; there is even an ice house if you can find it!
It is owned by the National trust and a lot has changed here since my first visit over 25 ago. The top house is now open to the public as the private residents have all gone, though some staff live there now. There is now a big shop, cafe and plant sales area. Several areas for children and study. A lovely quarry garden which is a very steep climb. Their latest project is a huge walled garden which will be completed in 2014.
After the ‘Spring walk’, May and June are the time to see the Azaleas, Rhododendrons, Kalmia, and in autumn the wonderful colours, but I have always loved it in high summer too as their perennials and shrubs really have the room to grow.