Borde Hill Garden

Location

About

Borde Hill Garden is a stunning horticultural haven located in the heart of Sussex, England. This 200-acre garden is a true paradise for nature lovers and horticultural enthusiasts. It's a perfect destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and enjoy a peaceful day out.

Borde Hill Garden was created by the famous horticulturist Colonel Stephenson Robert Clarke, who spent years developing and enhancing the gardens with a unique blend of exotic and indigenous plants. The garden has been carefully cultivated over the years, with a focus on creating a harmonious balance between nature and man-made design elements. This makes it one of the most picturesque and tranquil gardens in the country.

One of the standout features of Borde Hill Garden is its magnificent collection of rhododendrons, which bloom in late spring and early summer. The display of colours is truly breathtaking, with over 200 varieties of rhododendrons and azaleas, many of which were collected from expeditions to the Himalayas, China and Taiwan.

Another notable feature of the garden is the Italian Garden, which is a beautiful example of an Italianate garden. The garden is surrounded by terraces, statues and fountains, and features a central pond. It's a perfect place to sit and relax, enjoying the stunning views of the garden and the surrounding countryside.

The Rose Garden is another must-visit spot within the Borde Hill Garden. This beautifully landscaped area is home to over 500 roses of various colours and species. It's a perfect place for a romantic stroll, and the scent of the roses fills the air with a delightful fragrance.

For those who are interested in history, Borde Hill House is a Grade II* listed building that dates back to the 16th century. The house has been owned by the same family for over 100 years and is open to the public during the summer months. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house, which is filled with fascinating historical artefacts and beautiful artwork.

There's also a woodland adventure playground for children, which has been designed to blend in seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The playground features a giant treehouse, a zip line, a climbing wall, and much more. It's a perfect place for children to let off steam while parents can relax in the nearby picnic area.

The estate also offers a variety of walking trails that allow visitors to explore the beautiful landscape at their own pace. There are over 17 miles of paths and trails, ranging from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes. One of the most popular trails is the Parkland Walk, which takes visitors through the stunning countryside surrounding the garden.

In conclusion, Borde Hill Garden is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, gardens, and history. With its stunning collection of rhododendrons, beautiful Italianate garden, and historic house, there's something for everyone. Whether you're a horticultural enthusiast, a history buff, or a family looking for a fun day out, Borde Hill Garden is the perfect place to visit.

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Things to do nearby

Borde Hill Garden is a beautiful and historic garden located in West Sussex, England. With its stunning array of plants, flowers, and trees, it's no wonder that it's such a popular destination for visitors from around the world. But what about the other attractions nearby? In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best things to do and see in the area surrounding Borde Hill Garden.

1. Nymans Gardens: Just a short drive from Borde Hill Garden is Nymans Gardens, a stunning garden that's been featured in many TV shows and movies. Here, you can explore the beautiful woodland gardens, take a stroll through the rose garden, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

2. Wakehurst Place: Another nearby garden worth visiting is Wakehurst Place. Owned and managed by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Wakehurst Place is home to some of the rarest and most endangered plants in the world. The gardens are set across 500 acres of stunning countryside and include several walking trails, a bird hide, and a treetop walkway.

3. Bluebell Railway: If you're a train enthusiast, be sure to check out the Bluebell Railway. This heritage railway runs through the heart of the Sussex countryside and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can even take a ride on a steam train and experience the golden age of travel.

4. Ardingly Reservoir: For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Ardingly Reservoir is a great place to visit. This large body of water is surrounded by beautiful countryside and offers a range of activities, including fishing, sailing, and windsurfing. There are also several walking trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding area.

5. Ashdown Forest: Finally, no trip to the area would be complete without a visit to Ashdown Forest. This ancient woodland is the inspiration behind A.A. Milne's Winnie-the-Pooh stories and is a great place to explore, whether you're a fan of the books or not. There are several walking trails to choose from, as well as plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.

In conclusion, while Borde Hill Garden is a wonderful destination in its own right, there are plenty of other things to do and see in the surrounding area. Whether you're interested in gardens, trains, outdoor activities, or simply enjoying the countryside, there's something for everyone in West Sussex.