Using OS Maps online, I was researching public footpaths and potential walks  further down the A21 from Brede Hill and Johns Cross, around Silver Hill and Hurst Green when I discovered Bedgebury Forest just in the Kent Border.

Around Bedgebury Pinetum

Bedgebury forest had lots of paths, some high areas and public parking, it looked like a good place for a walk and to indulge in some landscape photography.  Initially that Saturday morning it looked like an overcast day so ideal for forest photography.

Once I arrived at Bedgebury I realised it was a very popular place for families and activities including cycling etc.  If you want to stay beyond 11am then its £13 to park else it is £3.  Oh well I was here now and I would explore the grounds.

Initially I walked into the Bedgebury Pinetum.  This is a world class reservation of over half of the worlds different variations of Pine trees there being over 800.

The grounds around the Pinetum are very well kept there are a few lakes or reservoirs there that make good subjects for some photography.  Being the beginning of June there were lots of flowering shrubs and plants.  With colourful flowers in the foreground and background you can get some nice complimentary contrasting colours in your photograph like the Rhododendrons and their reflections in the water.

An old couple enjoying the peace and quiet pointed out to me the rare bee orchid growing by the side of the path so I decided to photograph it because of them.  Nature is amazing when you think about it.  How could randomly a plant come up with the backside of a female bee in order to get pollinated by a frustrated male bee?  There is more to heaven and earth than men can ever dream of.

I was trying to get on the path to the great lake in front of Bedgebury manor which is now a private school for girls, with rich parents no doubt.  I could not find it though so missed the great lake, the sun was peeking through the clouds now as morning turned to the afternoon.

Deep inside Bedgebury forest its all a little less manufactured as I made my way to a high point called Sugarloaf hill.  There were no sweeping vistas on Sugarloaf hill but vivid forest colours as I waited for the sun to highlight the ferns, long grass and rhododendrons.