Our fist garden visit is Bateman's, former home of Rudyard Kipling. Bateman's is situated in a sweeping valley surrounded by open space and trails for walking. A walled garden full of old pear trees, clematis on a long pergola, a lovely rose garden and Mill house await exploration.

After lunch at Bateman's tearoom, and a quick walk along the valley, we're off to Sissinghurst, considered by many to be the most famous garden in England.

Created by Vita Sackville West and Harold Nicholson, Sissinghurst combines almost every style of gardening that has interested gardeners since the beginning of the 20th Century. Harold Nicholson's formal layout combines beautifully with his wife's love of the exuberant mixed border. Of particular interest is the White Garden, which has inspired many gardens around the world. When the family first moved to Sissinghurst they walked every evening from the Priest's House where they had dinner, to their sleeping quarters. Vita thought how nice it would be to have a garden that would look beautiful even in the moonlight. Hence, the White Garden was born! We'll spend the afternoon exploring the many garden rooms of Sissinghurst. Oh yes, and don't forget the gift shop!