My love for travel and exploration has taken me to various corners of the world. But it’s often the hidden gems in our backyard that hold the most charm. Over the last few trips driving across to the continent, we’ve started a delightful tradition: an overnight stop on our return journey from Dover. This gives us the chance to explore places usually overlooked during our weekend getaways, largely due to the unappealing prospect of navigating the M25.
In the past, we’ve had the pleasure of exploring Dover Castle and the intimate space of Down House that was once Charles Darwin’s home. This time, our hearts were set on the Sissinghurst Castle Garden and then Hughenden Manor
Family Day Out at Sissinghurst Castle Garden: Where History Meets Horticulture
Located in the Weald of Kent, the allure of the Sissinghurst Castle Garden is undeniable. Renowned as one of England’s premier gardens, our family’s anticipation was palpable as we approached this Grade I listed beauty.
Our expedition began at the South Cottage. As we stepped into this haven, a sense of history washed over us. It was easy to envision the renowned poet, novelist, and gardener, Vita Sackville-West, alongside her husband, Harold Nicolson, a diplomat and author, relaxing by the fire in the evenings, surrounded by books.
But what truly resonated with me was how this cottage was a sanctum of creativity. Void of grandeur, its essence lay in its simplicity – a place for writing, gardening, and introspection, adorned with countless books and a serene setting.
From the serenity of the garden, we ascended the tower, and the view left us spellbound. The vast expanse of the gardens and the Kentish landscape sprawled below was a visual treat.
In the tower we learn a little about the history of this once great house. In the late 15th century, a grand manor house was built on the estate. In the 16th century, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, the manor house served as a prison for French naval officers captured during the Seven Years’ War. Over the subsequent centuries, the estate faced a period of decline. Various parts of the manor house were dismantled before Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson then transformed the estate to how it is now.
Our day at Sissinghurst was a harmonious blend of history, nature, and architecture.
A Morning of Mystique at Hughenden Manor
Our adventures continued the next day, post a comfortable night at the Holiday Inn in High Wycombe. A short drive away lay Hughenden Manor, beckoning with its tales of history and mystery.
The manor, once home to Benjamin Disraeli, oozes history from every brick. Walking its corridors, we felt the weight of the pivotal decisions made here, shaping the nation’s course.
But Hughenden has another tale – one of wartime intrigue. To discover its role in covert map-making during the war was both thrilling and humbling.
And yet, amidst this gravitas, the manor presented pockets of light-hearted fun. The dressing-up room, with its giant jigsaw puzzle, made for a delightful family bonding session.
As our day drew to a close, the gardens of Hughenden offered a serene conclusion. A walk amidst nature’s bounty had us reflecting on a day rich in experiences, leaving us with memories to cherish.
The Journey Continues…
As I settled back into the daily grind, I stumbled upon this list from the National Trust – a trove of calm places to explore during our travels. As the wheels in my head began turning, one thought remained: Where to next?
In our quest for exploration, it’s these unexpected detours that often lead to the most cherished memories. And as we continue our journey, I look forward to many more such adventures, discovering the hidden gems that England has to offer.
