Not Just for the Birds: Nature's Powerful Prescription at Hole Park
Mental and Physical Wellbeing.
(Copyright text and image Hole Park, reproduced with kind permission)
Image one A Firecrest amongst Spring blossom Photo by David Campbell, Wildstarts -
Image two: A couple enjoying the peace of Hole Park gardens Photo by KT Bruce
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.
From mindful walks through 16-acres of beautifully maintained gardens and woodland to exclusive early-morning wildlife experiences, the gardens offer a range 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 resonates strongly 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 spectacular displays of wisteria, azaleas and rhododendrons plus succeeding waves of colour in the carefully planted formal gardens.
Adding to the appeal, Hole Park is holding two exclusive guided wildlife experiences on Friday 15th May, offering a rare opportunity to explore the estate before it opens to the public for the day.
Led by expert Kent ornithologist and naturalist Chris Gillard of Wildstarts, a Dawn Chorus Experience (6.30am–9am) and Wildlife Walk (9am–11.30am) will take small groups through ancient woodland and gardens, alive with Spring activity.
Guests will learn to identify a wide variety of birds by sight and sound, while also discovering the rich biodiversity of the estate – from butterflies and bees amongst 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 visitors are seeking a peaceful escape, a guided wildlife adventure, or simply the joy of seeing nature in full bloom, Hole Park aims to offer a restorative and enriching experience.
Further Information:
Dawn Chorus Experience & Wildlife Walk Event details:-
Date: Friday 15th May 2026
Times: 6.30am–9am (Dawn Chorus Experience) | 9am–11.30am (Wildlife Walk)
Cost: £49 per walk or £90 for both
Includes complimentary tea or coffee
Booking essential: limited to 10 participants per walk
Participants are advised to wear suitable outdoor clothing and footwear and may wish to bring binoculars
Walks may include uneven terrain and are not suitable for those with limited mobility
For the best experience of participants, dogs are not allowed on these two walks
Booking: https://www.holepark.com/events/wildlife
About Chris Gillard
Chris grew up in North Folkestone, exploring the North Downs Way, the White Cliffs of Dover, the beaches below and much of the countryside beyond, in his youth. With a career in horticulture spanning more than three decades, Chris is an active member of the Kent Ornithological Society (KOS), as well as supporting the county's two bird observatories at Dungeness and Sandwich Bay. A keen lister and record-keeper, Chris contributes sightings to the KOS database
About Tenterden Mindfulness
A registered charity, Tenterden Mindfulness regularly holds wellbeing retreats at Hole Park. The organisation was founded by local GP and mindfulness practitioner Dr Neil Pillai back in 2018. He saw first-hand the benefits to health and wellbeing when recommending Mindfulness to his patients, which is scientifically backed by the NHS, recommending Mindfulness as one of the 5 Steps to Mental Wellbeing. Dr Pillai established the charity to help improve physical, social, mental and emotional health through education in the practice of Mindfulness across the age spectrum. It offers public courses, monthly drop-ins where no previous experience is necessary as well as provide bespoke training for businesses, school children and their parents struggling with big emotions and newly diagnosed dementia patients and their carers as they navigate the changes in their relationship and the world around them.
About Hole Park
Nestled in 200 acres of classic English parkland, Hole Park is a hidden gem of the High Weald National Landscape. It has been owned by the Barham family for the past four generations, having been purchased as a family home by Edward Barham's great grandfather, Colonel Arthur Barham, in 1911. In the mid-1920s the Colonel made the bold decision to share the beauty of his recently created gardens, by opening them to the public: a tradition that is maintained to the present day. Over the decades, each succeeding generation has improved and innovated the layout and planting in the gardens. Current custodians, Edward and Clare Barham, moved into Hole Park with their three children and dogs in 2003. Since then, they have undertaken a comprehensive re-planting programme of the garden which reflects and enhances the Colonel's original plans from the 1920s. Edward and Clare both take an active role in managing the gardens. This includes public opening days, so they are often found selling tickets in front of the house, serving in the Tea Room or walking their dogs around the gardens.
