St. Ann's Well Gardens, Hove

St. Ann's Well Gardens is a landscaped park with mature trees, exotic plants, and a large pond supporting fish and aquatic life. The grounds include tennis courts, children's play areas, a cafe, and wide accessible paths designed for all visitors.

The park grew from the Wick Estate during medieval times and gained importance in the 1760s when the Scutt family developed a mineral spring on the site. This spring drew visitors and helped establish the location as a regional attraction.

The gardens hosted early film pioneers who set up production facilities here during the 1890s, making experimental motion pictures on the grounds. This history of artistic work shaped the place as a site where creative experimentation took root.

The park remains accessible year-round and offers wide, level paths suitable for walking and strolling. Visitors should note that certain areas can become muddy in wet weather, so appropriate footwear is advisable.

The gardens feature a special scented area designed specifically for blind and visually impaired visitors. Plants were selected for their strong and varied fragrances, creating a sensory experience beyond sight.