Beech Court Gardens - A garden for all seasons

The discovery of Roman swords and artifacts suggests that the site of Beech Court Gardens is an ancient one and Richard Plantagenet's illegitimate son may well have worked on the house as a carpenter. Spring colour from the rhododendrons, azaleas, viburnums and acers is augmented by bulbs, and summer interest provided by roses, philadelphus and hydrangeas. The many specimen trees give good autumn colour. The mature acers and various oaks with a rose walk, buddleia avenue and viburnum avenue make this a natural garden with meandering paths and suprising vistas.

This site lies on a pocket of acidic clay on the edge of the North Downs some 600ft above sea level in the heart of Kent. The woodland garden was laid out in an informal way over 60 years ago using the interesting natural contours of the previously farmed land. The pond, originally dug as a drinking trough for horses, is now a water garden surrounded by a rockery. The orginal orchard of apple trees has been incorporated into the garden and is now covered in varieties of climbing roses.

The garden was originally designed for the spring when the scent of the azaleas hung in the air and the rhododendrons were at their most colourful. As a complement a fine selection of over 80 varieties of acers were planted together with numerous firs, oaks and pines reflecting the designers admiration for Scotland's famous Inverewe garden. Among the collection of trees is the tallest Eucryphia in Kent, a mature specimen of Kalopanax and also a fine collection of acers. The present owners have developed it to harmonise with the seasons and produce interest and colour thoughout the year.

The finale to their gardening year is a vivid display of hydrangeas and Autumn hues on the leaves of the acers and autumnal shrubs. The gardens are noted for their peaceful atmosphere and care has been taken to encourage wild birds and butterflies.

The gardens have amazing autumn colour, this usually occurs after they close. However people are invited to visit the gardens in November by appointment.

 

Opening Dates	March 30th	November 3rd
Opening Times	Mon - Thur	10 - 5.30pm
	Fri - Sat	12 - 6.00pm
Admission Prices	Adults	£3.50
	OAP	£3.00
	Wheelchairs	£2.00
	Children	£1.00
Further Information	Tel	01233 740 735
	Fax	01233 740 842
Address	Beech Court Gardens Challock Kent