In this itinerary, we’ve covered some of West Sussex and Surrey's finest gardens - from RHS Garden Wisley to local favourites High Beeches and Borde Hill Garden.
Not only will you discover 240 acres of garden heritage at Wisley, but the woodlands of High Beeches will keep you in awe right through until you arrive at Borde Hill and its eclectic mix of unusual trees and shrubs.
Itinerary Summary
1 Morning
RHS Garden Wisley - Surrey
In the heart of Surrey, but easily accessible from central London, lies the beautiful RHS Garden Wisley, historic home of the Royal Horticultural Society and one of the world’s finest gardens. Within its 240 acres, be inspired by one of the biggest collections of plants in any single garden, and discover an array of gardening styles, from magnificent double mixed borders, to magical Wisteria arches and fabulous Orchards, Herb, Fruit and Kitchen Gardens. A memorable day out, whatever the season, Wisley also offers delicious food in a choice of cafes and restaurants, and boasts a superb shop and plant centre.
RHS Garden Wisley - Surrey
1 Lunch
Lunch at RHS Garden Wisley
Why not enhance your visit with a delicious lunch or Garden Cream tea, overlooking the lawns or enjoy a picnic in your own private spot. The choice is yours, with a range of cafes and restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets – taking influence from the garden produce in the season of your visit.
RHS Garden Wisley - Surrey
1 Afternoon
High Beeches Woodland and Water Garden
With 27 acres of woodland, water gardens, and a collection of rare, exotic and award winning plants, High Beeches Garden is one of Sussex’s finest gardens and is home to a plant collection that includes specimins from many parts of the world. It’s a hidden gem in the High Weald of West Sussex. A botanical treasure trove and classic English idyll make it one of the most wonderful woodland gardens in the South East.
High Beeches Woodland and Water Garden
1 Overnight
Ockenden Manor
After your woodland walks, Ockenden Manor, which combines Elizabethan country house splendour with modern luxuries that include an award-winning spa, will be your paradise. Enjoy delicious food, with menus created using the finest locally sourced ingredients to get your energy back up and kick back in your room that has unspoiled views over Cuckfield Park.
Ockenden Manor
2 Morning
Borde Hill Garden
Borde Hill is a Grade II* listed English Heritage Garden set within 200 acres of woodland and parkland, with magnificent views across the Ouse Valley viaduct. Referred to by The Daily Telegraph as ‘planted with passion’ and by Country Life as ‘one of the country’s truly great gardens’. Borde Hill is renowned for its astonishing collection of unusual trees and shrubs, and the Garden is set as distinct ‘rooms’, each with its own unique style and character. An abundance of spring magnolias, camellias and rhododendrons give way to exuberant summer borders of roses and herbaceous plants followed by mellow autumn colour.
Borde Hill Garden
2 Lunch
Lunch at Borde Hill Garden
The perfect conclusion to your tour of some of the countries finest gardens, a celebratory lunch at a choice of stunning venues – The Gardeners Retreat offers a selection of light lunch or afternoon tea options, or dine at the award-winning Jeremy’s Restaurant, located in the grounds of Borde Hill and featured in Good Food Guide 2018 (Thursday to Sunday inclusive).