Sissinghurst Garden Review
by Leslie J Wehr

Of all the gardens we have visited in the UK to date, we found Sissinghurst was the most magical. It is well laid out and has such a wonderful combination of formality and casualness that we'd recommend going out of your way if you are in Kent to visit it.

One of the key elements of this garden, in my opinion, is the varied approach. There are many different gardens within this garden: a white garden, meadows, herb garden, topiaries, roses and clematis, etc., all immaculate and inspiring. From the English gardens I've studied thus far, Sissinghurst reflects some key elements of a traditional English garden:

o The garden is hidden unless invited into it. English gardens tend to have a wall, either hardscape or living, which separates everyone from the garden's owner.

o Hardscapes and garden accents are found through out the garden.

o The garden has year round interest, having been planted so that something is going on all the time.

o Texture and color are elemental to the garden.

I could go on and on, but why not visit it when you can. This garden is not to be missed.

Below are two sites that can provide you with additional information on the gardens at Sissinghurst.

Sissinghurst Castle Garden, Kent - Presented by Dave Parker

National Trust - UK

Below are a few of our favorite pictures of Sissinghurst in May 2001 - Click on them for a more detailed picture
(Be patient, they may take a few seconds to open)