Groombridge Place - © Simon Lawson
Groombridge Place Gardens & Enchanted Forest is located in Tunbridge Wells in Kent and provides visitors with a range of attractions. The attractions range from the formal gardens to the enchanted forest containing the Birds of Prey sanctuary, Cruise the Canal and more. There is a mix of attractions here from the traditional formal gardens to more contemporary attractions meaning a visit here has something for the whole family.
Attractions
Groombridge Place Gardens & Enchanted Forest offers visitors an unusual mix of history, tranquillity along with excitement giving it a wide ranging appeal.
The Formal Gardens were first established back in 1674 with the formal walled gardens set against a romantic backdrop of a medieval moat that surrounds a classical manor house (the manor house on the site is a private residence and is thus not open to the public). The award-winning gardens include much admired herbaceous borders and the enchanting White Rose Garden that boasts over 20 varieties of white roses. There is also a Secret Garden that has deep shade and cooling waters located in very small hidden corner.
The Oriental Garden now has a grass fountain centrepiece and contains a number of exotic flowers and plants that exhibit the vivid and vibrant colours associated with gardens from the East.
The Knot Garden displays a two tone effect based on the black tulips alongside the bright blue pansies, the effect is two tone and provides a great spectacle for visitors to enjoy. Close by there is a giant sized chessboard.
The Draughtman's Lawn was the scene for the 1983 film The Draughtman's Contract. The Smoke Tree is located in the centre of the garden, there is also a white mulberry tree close by. Visitors at the start of the year can see primroses and bulbs, whilst in summer the trees provide a number of contrasting leaf colours varying from copper to lime.
The Herbaceous Border is regarded by many as one of the best features of the gardens. Located in the centre of the gardens, here visitors can see tulips and primulas in spring whilst visitors can see the peacocks who have roamed in the garden for many years, they provide a wonderful spectacle full of vivid colours.
The Enchanted Forest offers a contrast to the beautiful and peaceful gardens, the Enchanted Forest offers visitors with action and adventure. Among the most popular attractions is the Birds of Prey sanctuary, a large conservation sanctuary. There are various Hawk Walk shows in the day when there are flying displays for visitors and a display of the actual birds.
The Serpent's Liar is a fantasy garden that is inspired by ancient myths of serpent's, here there is plenty of fun for children and landscape art to see. The Dark Walk provides children over 5 and adults with an adventure walk on a boardwalk that winds its way through the woodland. There are plenty of challenges such as rope swings, balancing rail and hanging tyres among others.
Visitors can Cruise the Canal to enjoy some great views of the valley, the canal is located between the Kitchen Garden and the Enchanted Forest. The boatmen can give visitors more information on local history and facts on the estate.
How to Get There
The house can be accessed by both car and public transport:
By Car:
Groombridge The site is located to the west of central London. Visitors from the M25 Motorway should exit the motorway at junction 5 and drive south bound on the A21. After driving for approx 10 miles exit at the junction with the A26 signposted for Tunbridge Wells, then take the A264 to East Grinstead and from here you can follow the signs taking you to Groombridge Place and Groombridge Village.
There is free parking on site.
For those using Satellite Navigation systems the postcode is TN3 9QG.
By Train:
From London Charing Cross Station in central London trains are available to Tunbridge Wells. From Tunbridge Wells there is an hourly bus service to Groombridge (except on Sundays), visitors can also get a taxi from the station to the gardens a short distance away.
Contact Details
Groombridge Place Gardens & Enchanted Forest
Groombridge
Tunbridge Wells
Kent
TN3 9QG
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0)1892 861444
Fax: +44 (0)20 8568 0936
email: office@groombridge.co.uk
Website: Groombridge
Facilities & Information
Opening Times:
Open from late March until early November:
From 10.00 until 17.30 (Daily)
Further Information:
Admission Prices:
Adults: £9 approx, Children: £8 approx, Concessions £8 approx & Family Ticket: £30 approx
Canal Boat cruise to and from the Enchanted forest is £1 per person approx.
Facilities:
The Garden Restaurant offers visitors with a range of drinks, refreshments, snacks and meals.
There is also a picnic site where visitors can enjoy a picnic in wonderful surroundings.
There is reasonable disabled access to various areas of the site, it is best to phone before you visit to check with your exact requirements.
Map
View Larger Map
For Local Search and Directions see: Groombridge Place Gardens Map
Tips & Other Considerations
There may be some variations on the opening hours depending on the time of year and other factors. It is recommended visitors double check before going to ensure the attraction you wish to see is open.
When travelling follow travel safety tips and remain alert, vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times. Ensure valuables such as your wallet/purse are hidden away from public view. If you have a bag try to use a shoulder bag with a good quality, strong strap, that is put across your shoulder not on your shoulder making it more difficult for anyone to take your bag.
If you are travelling by car to Tunbridge Wells in Kent, ensure you are well prepared with maps and Sat Nav to aid your journey, particularly if you are not familiar with the local area and roads. For door to door directions use the journey planner to plan your trip. Check traffic updates before starting your journey.
If you are travelling by public transport, check for service updates prior to beginning your journey for any delays, disruption or cancellations to services that may impact on your journey. Ensure you have the service timetables for the trains, buses and coaches. Remember when the last services are and ensure you make it to the train/bus/coach stops well in time.
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
