Godmersham Park and Bilting House

These two gardens lie in the beautiful Stour valley south of Chilham, within the Kent Downs National Landscape. Both suffered badly in the 1987 storm, but that is difficult to remember when you see them today.

The core of Godmersham village – Church, Park and Court Lodge Farm – lies west of the river and bypassed by the A28. The Godmersham Park estate has been owned by the Sunley family since the 1980s. The 18th century mansion is leased to the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, who could hardly wish for better views. We will begin with refreshments at the Church, tour the gardens, and then visit the Heritage Centre in the converted Great Barn. The gardens, associated with Jane Austen who was a frequent visitor when the estate was owned by her brother Edward, lie to the south of the house. They include a restored wilderness and lime avenue of 18th century origin. Changes were made to the house and gardens in the 1930s, when the influential garden designer of the time, Norah Lindsay, advised on three formal gardens within the original walled garden.

After lunch we visit the nearby Bilting House, where owner John Erle Drax’s varied gardens include an arboretum and a woodland walk with azaleas, rhododendrons and other shrubs which will be full of interest in late May. John reminds us that one avenue, now mature, was replanted after the 1987 storm with the aid of a grant from Kent Gardens Trust.

Price: £50, excludes lunch (though tables will be reserved at the Flying Horse in Boughton Lees) but includes morning coffee at Godmersham, and tea at Bilting House.

KGT Contact: Caroline Bowdler 07934 499505

caroline.bowdler@btinternet.com