There’s something about a potting shed and this one is exceptional. In the prettiest part of Kent and part of a 300-year-old barn, it stands in the former kitchen garden of Benenden Grange where plantsman Collingwood Ingram once lived. And it’s been characterfully converted. Largely open plan, on three floors, you’ve a sitting room with sofa and chairs on a rugged limed-pine floor and you can be comfortably double or twin-bedded up on the mezzanine, under beams and down duvets. The bathroom and kitchen are small and cleverly thought through so the shower’s a decent size and the towels are thick; there’s a dishwasher, a microwave, and a jug of pretty flowers on the gingham tablecloth. Your friendly, inspiring hosts in Gardner’s Cottage next door have created all this, and the gorgeous rambling garden; the welcome trug reflects their style. Ask them for a tour of the topiary garden, stroll to the idyllic village pub. Visit sweet villages like Smarden and Biddenden, and gardens like Sissinghurst and Great Dixter… or rusticate out by the summer house. Lovely!
Charlotte and Donald are delightful hosts. They have created a heavenly garden and an enchanting place to stay in the midst of the charming village of Benenden within this lovely part of Kent. For us it was perfect and hope to return one day.