Five of the most renowned English gardens to visit this spring

Virginia Woolf once wrote about East Sussex, ‘The Downs are the essence of England, and the South Downs are the essence of the Downs.’ And while we may be biased, we wholeheartedly agree.

With its rolling hills, charming villages, and designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, East Sussex’s allure is evident no matter the season. However, there is truly something enchanting about East Sussex in the springtime.

As winter’s chill begins to fade, the county awakens with the first signs of spring. New blooms flicker to life, filling the landscape with vibrant colours and delicate fragrances. We invite you to embrace these warmer days with us, where the sky is painted in the brightest shades of blue, and the gentle sunshine hints at the promise of summer.

Across East Sussex, English gardens and the rolling hills come alive, adorned with clusters of bluebells, daffodils, and magnolias. Read on to discover our selection of the most stunning gardens that East Sussex has to offer, which we encourage you to explore.

Experience the enchanting beauty of Great Dixter House & Gardens, a must-visit destination in East Sussex. Designed by the renowned gardener Christopher Lloyd, Great Dixter offers a unique blend of history and horticulture. In spring, the garden bursts into life with a stunning display of tulips, daffodils, and other vibrant blooms, creating a kaleidoscope of colors that will leave you mesmerized.

As you wander through the Long Border, you’ll encounter a riot of color and texture that exemplifies Lloyd’s bold planting style. The Exotic Garden, with its striking foliage and unusual plants, provides a touch of the unexpected, while the historic Great Barn offers a glimpse into the past.

The expert planting schemes and charming garden rooms provide endless inspiration and delight for garden enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Additionally, the springtime garden tours offer valuable insights into the history and design philosophy behind this horticultural masterpiece. Don’t miss the chance to explore Great Dixter House & Gardens and be captivated by its springtime splendor.

Experience the timeless charm of Bateman’s, the former home of world-famous writer Rudyard Kipling, nestled in the heart of East Sussex. This Jacobean house, built in 1634, is surrounded by a stunning 12-acre garden that Kipling himself helped design.

In spring, Bateman’s garden comes alive with a vibrant display of blooms, including daffodils, tulips, and magnolias, creating a picturesque and colourful landscape.

One of the highlights of spring at Bateman’s is the beautiful lily pond and rose garden, where visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere and fragrant blossoms. The orchard, with its mix of productive and ornamental plants, epitomises Kipling’s ethos of relaxed formality.

Our curated list of East Sussex’s finest gardens is just the beginning—there’s a plethora of beautiful green spaces waiting to be discovered throughout our charming region.

If any of these gardens have caught your eye and you’re in search of a welcoming retreat to base your adventures from, we invite you to enjoy a stay in one of our cosy ensuite bedrooms. With several of our rooms being dog-friendly, you can bring the entire family along for the journey.

Book directly with us and enjoy a 15% discount on your stay.