Historic Gardens

Restoration House, Rochester

Picture of Restoration House Restoration House in Rochester, which is an amalgamation of two medieval buildings, was named after the stay of King Charles II on the eve of the Restoration. Its long-walled garden has recently been restored and extended by the present owners. It incorporates mature trees and archaeological features, with a formal pond connecting two parts of the garden through a central brick wall which divides the garden. A boxwood parterre, sunken greenhouse, vegetable and cutting gardens are some of the features which can be discovered. Research report: https://www.kentgardenstrust.org.uk/research-projects/Medway/Restoration House.pdf

www.restorationhouse.co.uk

Riverhill Himalayan Garden, Sevenoaks

Home to the Rogers family since 1840, these family run gardens of over twelve acres comprise a recently restored walled garden, rose walk, wood gardens and an Edwardian rock garden. Breathtaking views over the Weald of Kent are visible from various parts of the gardens together with a Himalayan Hedge Maze.

www.riverhillgardens.co.uk

Rochester Cathedral Precincts, Rochester

Picture of Rochester Cathedral Precincts Rochester Cathedral Precinct: Old Deanery Garden, King's Orchard and Cloister Garth, Rochester. The gardens have existed as part of the ecclesiastical complex since the C12. The Cloister Garth survives as an example of a typical Benedictine cloister garden and is open to the public. The old Deanery Garden was created by taking land from the King’s Orchard. The most famous dean was Samuel Hole, a keen rose-grower who promoted the first national rose show in 1858. Dean Hole wrote many books but his plantings of 135 rose species in the deanery garden do not survive. Part of the ancient King’s Orchard remains as a secluded, peaceful haven with s everal very old trees including a medlar. The old Deanery Garden and King’s Orchard are not normally open to the public but can be visited by arrangement.