Groombridge Place, also known as the Enchanted Forest, is a fantastic park with extensive gardens that have been open to the public since 1994.
It is truly a fairy tale estate, complete with a moated Manor House (pictured). Although the house is privately owned and not open to the public, it serves as a splendid backdrop to the elaborately planned and landscaped gardens. This is a very magical place, sure to be a favourite with children and adults.
The formal gardens at Groombridge are extensive. One of the most popular areas is the secluded Secret Garden, a shady hideaway that was favoured by Philip Packer, the man who built Groombridge in 1662 and who ended his days peacefully reading in this very spot in 1686.
The White Rose Garden is a celebration of white, with 20 varieties of white rose and numerous other white-flowering plants.
The Garden Wall in this area is a favourite roost for the peacocks that have been a part of the garden landscape for over 300 years.
The Drunken Garden is another interesting location, its topiary and expansive lawn made it the favourite place of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle when he paid one of his frequent visits to the estate.
The children's areas at Groombridge Place are inspired. Designed by Ivan Hicks, these are interactive and imaginative places that are truly unique. The Dinosaur and Dragon Valley features dinosaur footprints, plesiosaur nests high overhead, and an enormous dragon perched at the edge of a pond.
The Dark Walk takes you on an exciting trip along a raised boardwalk with various climbing activities forming a bit of an obstacle course along the way, and the Swing Walk brings you to an area where long swings hang from very tall trees on a hillside, making for a simply fantastic and unique swinging experience.
Be sure to visit the Bird of Prey Centre at Groombridge, this rescue organization puts on flying displays and bird shows.
Groombridge is a great destination for people of all ages.
Groombridge, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 9QG
Telephone: 01892 861 444
Photo courtesy: cornish celt
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