insideSUSSEX Magazine Issue 05 - July 2015 | Page 54

DAYSOUT Sussex’s Gorgeous Gardens Our county has so much to offer during the summer months: sandy beaches, rolling countryside, and of course, spectacular gardens. So pack a picnic, a bottle of bubbly and enjoy the great outdoors at some of insideSUSSEX’s favourite flower-filled spaces. 1. Borde Hill Garden Created by Colonel Stephenson Robert Clarke from seeds gathered by the Great Plant Hunters of the early 1900s, the Edwardian Garden at Borde Hill is renowned for its rare shrubs and champion trees. The grounds extend to over 200 acres, including 17 acres of formal gardens, and boasts spectacular views over the Sussex Weald and the Ouse Valley. Kids can enjoy the play area and grown-ups can savour a nice, warm cuppa at the café. www.bordehill.co.uk 2. Pashley Manor Gardens 1 At Pashley Manor Gardens, you can delight in the sweeping herbaceous borders, elegant rose and historic walled gardens, the productive kitchen garden, enchanting woodland paths and tranquil vistas. As well as visiting the gardens, visitors can sample the delicious homemade food in the café, including locally smoked chicken and trout, hand-raised pie and many more choices. www.pashleymanorgardens.com 3. Sheffield Park and Garden 2 The garden is a horticultural work of art formed through centuries of landscape design, with influences of ‘Capability’ Brown and Humphry Repton. Four lakes form the heart of the garden, with paths circulating through the glades and wooded areas surrounding them. Each owner has left their impression, which can still be seen today in the layout of the lakes, the construction of Pulham Falls, the planting of Palm Walk and the many different tree and shrub species from around the world. You can also enjoy a sweet or savoury treat in the tea room, or find the perfect gift in the shop. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sheffield-park-andgarden 4. Wakehurst Place 3 54 Open throughout the year, Wakehurst is the country estate of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. The varied landscape is of international significance for its beautiful botanic gardens and tree collections, as well as for its science-based plant conservation and research. You can enjoy lunch of seasonal and local produce at The Stables, or have a fresh homemade sandwich or cake at the Seed Café. If you fancy a spot of shopping, find the perfect addition to your own home garden in the plant centre or Kew-run shop. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wakehurst-place