Borde Hill

Borde Hill, near Haywards Heath just off the A23, isn't particularly well known, yet it's been described as 'One of the country's truly great gardens' by Country Life magazine.

The Tudor house (which isn't open) was originally constructed in 1598 by Stephen Borde. Eventually in 1893 the estate was bought by Colonel Stephenson Robert Clarke, who started to plant the gardens and woodlands. Numerous extensions were made to the garden and house, and in 1965 the garden became a registered charity and was opened to the public, by Stephenson's son. The garden is listed as Grade II* by English Heritage.

The garden has a series of 'rooms' and lots of other things of interest, including one of the best collections of champion trees in a private property in Britain. When we were there it was hosting a marvellous display of art around the garden and parkland.

Click on the picture to look at our photos.

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