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!
What an utterly charming place to stay! We loved staying at The Potting Shed - Donald and Charlotte were very welcoming and accommodating. We also loved hearing about the history of 'Cherry' Ingram, their role in caring for his garden, and seeing their own stunning garden with impressive topiary. It was so relaxing too to enjoy reading a book in the summerhouse in a private area of garden especially reserved for guests. With so many things to do locally, a village gastropub only a few minutes walk away, and the charming retreat of the Potting Shed we would thoroughly recommend staying.