It’s gardens galore this May bank holiday weekend. We take a look at events to get your green fingers raring to go!

Yalding Gardens near Maidstone

A much-loved historic garden has been given a new lease of life after a full restoration. Yalding Organic Gardens has reopened as Yalding Gardens, five years after it closed.

The 12.5-acre site near Maidstone is now available for wedding events as well as being open to the public on certain days.

Divided into 16 distinct areas, the gardens were originally created as a display garden for the Henry Doubleday Research Association (now called Garden Organic).

Despite the efforts of volunteers, the gardens had fallen into disrepair and become overgrown. Now, new owners Rod and Nicki Clark have worked with one of the original gardeners to replant, reshape and, eventually reopen the site.

There is a medieval garden, Tudor garden, 19th-century cottage garden and Edwardian garden among the different areas, along with orchards, a fruit garden and a vegetable patch. The barn has also been restored.

Rod said: “The restoration of the gardens has been a considerable amount of work and we are delighted to have one of the original members of the team on board to help advise on the replanting.

"As we have uncovered and reclaimed the garden, we have been discovering many plants and bulbs which have survived the wilderness years, so we want to take our time to ensure we give everything a chance to fully recover.”

The gardens’ organic certificate has expired, but managers aim to run it as sustainably as possible. They also plan to run training courses for schools and colleges.

OPEN DAY

The next chance for the public to glimpse Yalding Gardens will be on Sunday, May 8, when there will be a wedding event and open day, between 10am and 3pm. You can explore the whole venue and see what’s on offer. There will also be sample canapés, a complimentary drink and a chance to meet the site’s recommended suppliers. For details email enquiries@thegardensyalding.co.uk

Belmont Gardens, Faversham

Spend a spring day in an inspirational Kent garden that has been planted over two centuries.

Belmont Gardens at Faversham, which has a walled garden, pinetum, wooded areas, formal lawns and a large kitchen garden, will hold its spring fair on Bank Holiday Monday between 11am and 4pm.

There will be a craft marquee, locally-produced food and have-a-go archery, as well as the chance to get some advice on how to get your garden looking wonderful.
Normal admission applies, while the archery is £2, with under-16s free. For details visit belmont-house.org

It's the Year of the English Garden this year - see why Leeds Castle has been highlighted.

Weald of Kent Craft and Design Show, Penshurst Place

There’s birds and beasts, rural crafts and a one-off show garden all in picturesque surroundings this weekend.

The Weald of Kent Craft and Design Show will be held at Penshurst Place, near Tunbridge Wells, from Saturday, April 30, to Bank Holiday Monday. With more than 250 stands and activities for all ages to enjoy, there will also be workshops, demonstrations and live music throughout the three-day event.

The Tempus Fugit Garden, a show garden featuring stone sundials and stone-engraving demonstrations, will be on display for visitors to pick up green-fingered inspiration.
Dogs are welcome but cannot enter the marquees.

Entry is £8 in advance or £10 on the door; under-16s free. For details call 01425 277988 or visit ichfevents.co.uk