Canterbury Gardens & Countryside Tour

A seasonal half-day tour exploring private gardens and country estates around Canterbury. The itinerary typically includes Goodnestone Park, a Georgian manor with 14 acres of grounds, plus two or three other private gardens that open to limited visitors. This is a specialist tour for gardeners and plant enthusiasts who want hands-on advice from expert guides familiar with local horticulture. Best for garden enthusiasts and nature lovers. This is a easy activity lasting 7 hours. Group size: 8-18. You meet at Canterbury Cathedral car park. Key highlights: Goodnestone Park Georgian manor and 14 acres of grounds, Access to private gardens not open to the general public, Expert horticultural guide with plant knowledge.

Price: £65

Duration: 7 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 8-18

Minimum age: all ages

Best for: garden enthusiasts and nature lovers

Best time: April–October. Peak blooms are May (bulbs and rhododendrons), June–July (roses and herbaceous borders), and September (late perennials and autumn colour). Avoid November–March when gardens are less busy and some close.

Meeting point: Canterbury Cathedral car park

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

10:00am Meet at Canterbury Cathedral car park - Small group gathers; driver provides itinerary and notes on gardens you'll visit.

10:15am–11:15am Coach journey to Goodnestone Park - 30-minute drive south from Canterbury to this Georgian estate near Faversham.

11:15am–12:45pm Goodnestone Park gardens tour - Guided walk through 14 acres: herbaceous borders, woodland paths, lake, and Victorian kitchen garden. Expert commentary on plant varieties and seasonal blooms.

12:45pm–1:45pm Light lunch at the estate café - Coffee, tea, and light snacks available (not included). Time to rest and sketch plant ideas.

1:45pm–4:30pm Visits to two private gardens - Coach travel to two additional private estates, each with a 45-minute guided tour. Gardens vary seasonally; spring features bulbs, summer shows roses and perennials.

4:30pm–5:00pm Return drive to Canterbury - Coach returns to Cathedral car park. Guide may distribute plant care advice sheets and nursery recommendations.

The whole experience takes 7 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Canterbury Cathedral car park.

• Goodnestone Park Georgian manor and 14 acres of grounds
• Access to private gardens not open to the general public
• Expert horticultural guide with plant knowledge
• Seasonal displays: spring bulbs, summer roses, autumn colour
• Small group atmosphere ideal for asking questions
• Plant-buying opportunities at gardens if desired
• Accessibility: Easy fitness level. Garden paths are mostly flat and well-maintained, but some gravel sections may be slow for wheelchair users. Goodnestone Park has accessible toilets and seating areas. Coach has standard entry; no wheelchair lift on this operator. Contact in advance if mobility assistance is needed.

What is included: Round-trip coach from Canterbury Cathedral car park, Admission to Goodnestone Park, Admission to two private gardens, Expert guide commentary.

Not included: Light lunch or refreshments (available to purchase), Gratuities for driver/guide, Plant purchases. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes with good grip (some paths are gravel or grass), Hat and sunscreen, Light layer (gardens can be windy), Camera or sketchbook for plant ideas, Notepad for plant names and nursery tips. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: April–October. Peak blooms are May (bulbs and rhododendrons), June–July (roses and herbaceous borders), and September (late perennials and autumn colour). Avoid November–March when gardens are less busy and some close..

Tip: Seasonal April-October

Tip: Excellent for photographers

Accessibility: Easy fitness level. Garden paths are mostly flat and well-maintained, but some gravel sections may be slow for wheelchair users. Goodnestone Park has accessible toilets and seating areas. Coach has standard entry; no wheelchair lift on this operator. Contact in advance if mobility assistance is needed..

Operator: Garden Tours Kent

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Canterbury Cathedral (2 min from car park walk)
• Greyfriars Chapel and Gardens (10 min from car park walk)
• Beaney House of Art and Knowledge (7 min from car park walk)

This activity is run by Garden Tours Kent.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 14 days before; £10 fee 7–14 days before; 50% refund 3–7 days before; non-refundable within 72 hours.

Accessibility: Easy fitness level. Garden paths are mostly flat and well-maintained, but some gravel sections may be slow for wheelchair users. Goodnestone Park has accessible toilets and seating areas. Coach has standard entry; no wheelchair lift on this operator. Contact in advance if mobility assistance is needed..

Best time to go: April–October. Peak blooms are May (bulbs and rhododendrons), June–July (roses and herbaceous borders), and September (late perennials and autumn colour). Avoid November–March when gardens are less busy and some close..

What is Goodnestone Park?

Goodnestone Park is a Georgian manor near Faversham with 14 acres of mature gardens including herbaceous borders, woodland walks, and a lake. The estate has hosted visitors for over 200 years and is known for its seasonal displays of bulbs, roses, and perennials.

Which gardens are included on each date?

The two private gardens vary seasonally and by availability. The tour operator confirms the specific gardens at booking. All three gardens on your itinerary will have public access for the tour, but they don't usually open independently to the public.

Can I buy plants at the gardens?

Some gardens have plant sales or can direct you to nearby nurseries stocking similar varieties. The guide carries nursery recommendations. Purchases are optional and not included in the tour price.