Autumn colours and fungi
Emmetts Garden, Kent
26.10.2020
In the Rock Garden
A few days ago we paid a first visit to this fairly small National Trust run garden just off the M25 to the south of London. And what a delight it was!
The garden was developed in Edwardian times by Frederic Lubbock, a keen plantsman. He collected many exotic and rare trees and shrubs from across the world. Under the National Trust’s ownership it is gradually being restored to its former glory but is already a fabulous spot for a walk and for photography.
View from near the entrance
There are wonderful views over the Kent Weald (this is one of the highest spots in the county) and a network of trails through the wooded slopes, in addition to the formal gardens. These include a Rock Garden, at its best in autumn when the acers glow red and orange; a Rose Garden; and planned areas of shrub planting to show off the more exotic specimens in a semi-natural setting.
Let me take you on a walk through the garden …
The Rock Garden
This was where we saw the most vivid colours as there is a great collection of Acers (Japanese Maple). There were also still some flowers in this sheltered spot.
In the Rock Garden
Acer in the Rock Garden
In the Rock Garden
The North Garden
They are currently restoring this area to look more like Frederic Lubbock's original design, making more of the small pond at its centre. This is the highest part of the garden.
The North Garden
In the North Garden
Woodland Walk
Steps led us down to a path strewn with fallen leaves and prickly sweet chestnut cases. There were lots of fungi to spot among the trees, some of them tiny!
On the Woodland Walk
The path led us to a viewpoint at the lowest point on the walk.
View from Emmetts Garden
The South Garden
This is more open, with lawns dotted with trees, many of them vibrant at this time of year.
Autumn colour in the South Garden
There were some interesting specimen trees, all labelled, and a white rhododendron having a late flush.
Prickly heath bush from Argentina
Rhododendron in the South Garden
While autumn is recommended as a special time to visit, I’m told by a friend that the woods are also stunning in the spring when the bluebells are flowering - and of course the Rose Garden would be at its best in the summer months. We will have to return ...
Posted by ToonSarah 03:30 Archived in England Tagged trees flowers colour garden autumn
Hello, Sarah! Thanks for another wonderful story with stunning views...Keep well!
by Vic_IV