0191 2094161

Borde Hill Gardens, Sussex

BRIEF HISTORY

The Stephenson Clarke family moved to Sussex in the 1840’s and Stephenson R Clarke purchased Borde Hill in 1893. About 1912 his passion for collecting trees and shrubs began by financing expeditions to the Himalayas and China along with other local land owners. He was primarily a collector rather than a designer and emphasis was given to wild species rather than cultivars. These rare trees and shrubs were positioned in the best conditions and soil. His best gift to the nation is Camellia x williamsii ‘Donation’ raised at Borde Hill and won the award of merit in 1941.

He was succeeded by Colonel Sir Ralph Stephenson Clarke, a member of parliament for 20 years, who restored the garden after the war and with his wife introduced the nerine collection. In 1965 he formed the charity and the Garden was open to the public. His son, Robert, took over Borde Hill in 1970 and his emphasis was the rhododendron collection which with the help of head gardener, Jack Vass, extended to over 450 varieties. He died in 1987, just after the great storm and his son Andrewjohn moved to the House where he lives with his family. The Rose, the White and Italian Gardens are some of the latest introductions.

HORTICULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS

Borde Hill has enhanced the colour and charm of its award winning, Grade ll* listed garden, park and woodland to celebrate its 45th anniversary being open to the public. New planting has been undertaken throughout its distinctive ‘garden rooms’, accentuate elegance and formality of the Italian Garden and increasing the vibrancy of Paradise Walk and sub-tropical Round Dell. The expansion of its well acclaimed Rose Garden to include new ‘Gold Standard’ rose beds have created a glorious and fragrant botanical display to further delight the senses.

The 17 acres of the formal garden offer a variety of colour in every season. Early spring flowering bulbs, renowned collection of magnolias, camellias, rhododendrons and azaleas give way to exuberant summer borders of roses and herbaceous plants, followed by an autumnal blaze. Beyond, 200 acres of magic woodlands and parkland expand into the distant panorama of the Sussex High Weald, creating spectacular views. Exotic tree and shrub species can be found in the microclimates evolving here, along with the largest collection of tallest and widest girth ‘champion’ trees on private land in Britain. The broad landscape and panoramic views provide an excellent opportunity for photo shoots or as a film set. Ideal for inspirational product launches.

OTHER THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Borde Hill provides fun and education for the whole family and children’s activities are arranged throughout all the school holiday periods when the Garden is open, including Autumn Half Term. The Maize Maze will delight children and adults alike and families can follow the Tree Trail, learning about the different species as they go.

With younger visitors in mind, Borde Hill has moved its original playground site away from a number of endangered tree species and created the entertaining and energising Harry’s Adventure Playground in attractive parkland overlooking the lakes. Designed by Julian Cochrayne, Chelsea Flower Show award winner, the wood construction includes climbing frames, balance beams and a challenging zip-line for older children and a safe, fun area for toddlers.

Throughout Borde Hill there is plenty of space where the whole family can relax, picnic and play.

Visitors are welcome to enjoy picnics throughout the parkland, adventure playground and the secluded and peaceful lake area, which is particularly recommended.

The exciting Green Tree Gallery at Borde Hill offers a wide selection of fresh and inspiring art and craft.

Gifts, souvenirs and plants are also available from the shops.

FOOD & DRINK

Jeremy’s Restaurant (featured in the Good Food Guide 2011) is situated in a charming converted stable block with a delightful south-facing terrace and Victorian Walled Garden. Next door, Café Elvira serves home-made refreshments for morning coffee, a scrumptious lunch and afternoon cream tea.

HOW TO FIND US

Borde Hill is 1½ miles north of Haywards Heath, 20 minutes North of Brighton, or South of Gatwick on the A23 taking exit 10a via Balcombe and Cuckfield. Or direct trains from London Bridge or Victoria to Haywards Heath take 45 mins.

OPENING TIMES

21st March – 11 September and 22nd – 30th October, daily 10am – 6pm

ENTRY

Adults: £8.00, Concession: £7.00, Children: £4.75, Season Tickets: Adults £25, Child £15, Family Day Ticket £22, Annual Family Tickets: £65 (2 plus 2), £75 (2 plus 3)

POSTCODE FOR CAR SAT NAVs

RH16 1XP

WEBSITE

www.bordehill.co.uk

TEL

01444 450326