Not just for the birds: nature’s powerful prescription at Hole Park
Spending time in nature could be just what the doctor ordered, with new research continuing to highlight its powerful benefits for both mental and physical wellbeing. That’s certainly the idea behind the invitation to visitors from Kent garden Hole Park to slow down, reconnect and fully immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and scents of the season.
A couple enjoying the peace of Hole Park gardens
Photo by KT Bruce
From mindful walks through 16 acres of beautifully maintained gardens and woodland to exclusive early-morning wildlife experiences, Hole Park Gardens offers a variety of ways to nourish mind, body and spirit.
Originally created in the aftermath of the First World War by the great-grandfather of current owner Edward Barham, the gardens were designed as a place of peace and healing - a purpose that continues to resonate today.
This spring, visitors can experience the gardens at their seasonal best. Following the bluebell peak, swathes of wild garlic fill the aptly named ‘Garlic Valley’, soon followed by striking displays of wisteria, azaleas and rhododendrons, along with successive waves of colour in the carefully planted formal gardens.
Enhancing the programme, Hole Park will host two exclusive guided wildlife experiences on Friday 15 May, offering a rare opportunity to explore the estate before it opens to the public for the day.
A Firecrest amongst Spring blossom
Photo by David Campbell, Wildstarts
Visitors are invited to reconnect with nature this spring at Hole Park, where 16 acres of beautifully maintained gardens and woodland offer a peaceful escape for mind, body and spirit.
Originally created in the aftermath of the First World War by the great grandfather of current owner Edward Barham, the gardens were designed as a place of peace and healing, a purpose that continues to resonate today.
As the seasons change, the gardens come into their own. Following the bluebell peak, swathes of wild garlic fill the aptly named Garlic Valley, before giving way to striking displays of wisteria, azaleas and rhododendrons, alongside successive waves of colour in the carefully planted formal gardens.
Adding to the spring experience, Hole Park will host two exclusive guided wildlife events on Friday 15th May, offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore the estate before it opens to the public.
Led by expert Kent ornithologist and naturalist Chris Gillard of Wildstarts, a Dawn Chorus Experience (6.30am to 9am) and Wildlife Walk (9am to 11.30am) will take small groups through ancient woodland and gardens alive with seasonal activity.
Guests will learn to identify a wide variety of birds by sight and sound, while also discovering the estate’s rich biodiversity, from butterflies and bees among the flowers to amphibians in tranquil ponds. Each walk is limited to just 10 participants, ensuring a fully immersive experience and access to Chris’ expertise.
Growing evidence shows that spending as little as 20 minutes a day in green spaces can significantly improve mood and reduce stress levels. Nature-based activities are now even included in the NHS Long Term Plan through green social prescribing, recognising the role of the outdoors in supporting mental health.
Local GP and mindfulness practitioner Dr Neil Pillai, founder of Tenterden Mindfulness, which regularly hosts wellbeing retreats at Hole Park, is a strong advocate for the benefits of time spent in nature.
Dr Pillai says:
“As a GP I am well aware of the pressures that we all face in our daily lives and how this can affect our health. Allowing ourselves the time and space to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty which is all around us at Springtime is a simple and enjoyable way to resource ourselves so that we can be in a better position to also support those around us.
“There is a wealth of evidence to support the concept that being ‘mindful in nature’ is one of the very best things you can do to support your wellbeing – and what better place to do it than at Hole Park.”
Hole Park’s owner Edward Barham says:
“We like to encourage visitors to slow down, ‘press pause’ and fully engage their senses as they go around the gardens. Whether it’s taking in the fragrance of flowers, listening to birdsong or simply siting on one of our many seats and benches to enjoy the views, Hole Park offers a space to truly unwind.”
Whether seeking a peaceful escape, a guided wildlife adventure, or simply the joy of seeing nature in full bloom, Hole Park offers a restorative and enriching day out this spring.