Penshurst Place & Gardens announces a new programme of ticketed spring experiences this April, offering visitors the chance to explore the estate in unique ways — from hands-on creative workshops with access to the house and gardens to a guided countryside walk followed by lunch in a private Elizabethan setting and free exploration of the formal gardens and historic interiors.
Designed for adults seeking memorable days out, the programme combines creativity, heritage and landscape, all set against the backdrop of the estate’s spectacular Grade I listed spring gardens. Throughout April, carpets of colour fill the gardens, from tulips and bluebells to the creamy whites and pinks of magnolias and fruit blossom bursting across the grounds. The seasonal display forms the backdrop to Penshurst Place’s April ticketed events programme, allowing visitors to combine nature, creativity and heritage in one of Kent’s most historic settings.
“April is when the gardens and surrounding landscape truly wake up,” says Ben Thomas, General Manager at Penshurst Place. “These events give visitors a rare opportunity to experience the estate in a more intimate way — combining creativity, nature and access to spaces that are not normally open to the public.”
Fused Glass Workshop
Wednesday 15 April | 2.00pm – 4.00pm
£80 per person (includes access to house and gardens)
A brand-new Fused Glass Workshop launches this spring, offering a hands-on creative session led by specialist tutor Jane Padgham. Drawing inspiration from colour, texture and the estate’s natural surroundings, participants create a collection of decorative handmade pieces to take home, including coasters, light catchers and ornamental hangers or keyrings.
Each design reflects the seasonal palette of the gardens, from colourful pops of spring flowers through to calming green tones of trees and local landscapes — resulting in unique glass artworks that capture a moment of spring.
Tickets include all materials, light refreshments, an exclusive 15% discount redeemable in the Gift Shop and free access to the house and gardens before the workshop. Priced at £80 per person, advance booking is required here: https://events.liveit.io/penshurst-place-gardens/fused-glass-workshop/
Penshurst Place Estate Spring Stroll & Lunch
Sunday 19 April | 10.30am – 2.00pm
£49 per person (includes access to house and gardens)
Penshurst Place’s popular Spring Stroll returns on Sunday 19 April, offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore the wider estate on a guided two-hour all-terrain walk followed by a two-course lunch in one of the estate’s private Elizabethan banqueting rooms.
As guests step beyond the formal gardens, they will encounter seasonal highlights, wildlife sightings and sweeping countryside views while learning more about the estate’s landscape and rich heritage. The route reveals spring’s awakening across ancient woodland and open parkland, creating a tranquil backdrop for a shared outdoor experience.
After the walk, participants ascend a historic stone staircase to the rarely-seen Sunderland Room — a private banqueting space. Entry is alongside a minstrel gallery, offering a dramatic view overlooking the medieval Baron’s Hall below, a perspective few members of the public experience. Lunch is served within this atmospheric Elizabethan setting before visitors enjoy free access to the historic house and formal gardens to explore at leisure.
Tickets include the guided walk, two-course lunch and entry to the house and gardens during their normal opening hours. Priced at £49 per person, advance booking is required: https://events.liveit.io/penshurst-place-gardens/penshurst-place-estate-spring-stroll-lunch-2/
Plant Your Own Vegetable Garden to Take Home
Wednesday 29 April | 10.00am – 1.00pm
£55 per person (includes access to house and gardens)
From garden fork to table fork, 2026 can be the year to dive into ‘grow your own’ with the skills learned in a hands-on workshop led by the Head Gardener at Penshurst Place, Tony Wiseman.
In this three-hour workshop, participants will be guided through every step of setting up a vegetable garden — from when to plant, pest control and when to harvest, as well as simple strategies for maintaining soil health and maximising yields. This workshop, designed for absolute beginners, will help participants create a thriving fruit and vegetable patch to provide delicious food for the table year after year.
Whether creating a range of raised beds in a garden or planting a few pots on a balcony, there will be a selection of vegetables that are ideal for the space available. At the end of the workshop, participants will take home a propagation box with a selection of potted vegetables for their own gardens, along with seeds to help continue their vegetable beds, a guidebook and a 50% off coupon for any one plant in the Penshurst Place Plant Centre.
Tickets include access to the house and gardens during their normal opening hours. Advance booking required: https://events.liveit.io/penshurst-place-gardens/plant-your-own-vegetable-garden-to-take-home/
Gift Shop, Plant Centre and Pantry
Open daily | 9.00am – 5.00pm
Visitors can extend their day with a browse in the Gift Shop and Plant Centre, stocked with Easter decorations, seasonal plants and spring-themed finds. The adjoining Porcupine Pantry offers light bites, drinks and sweet treats — perfect for refuelling after a wander around the gardens or a scenic estate walk.
ENDS
