Wakehurst

Wakehurst is a large garden estate in West Sussex that spreads across woodland paths, open lawns, and specialized plant areas. The property also features the original 16th-century manor house with its distinctive E-shaped form alongside modern museum buildings and a research facility.

The manor was built by Sir Edward Culpeper toward the end of the 16th century and went through several transformations over time. It evolved from a private residence into a publicly accessible garden and plant conservation research center.

The name comes from the family that long owned the estate, and today visitors use the gardens to explore plant diversity through carefully arranged collections. The maintained spaces invite people to spend time wandering through different landscapes at their own pace.

The grounds are quite large, so visitors should wear comfortable shoes and allow time for an extended walk, with paths available for different mobility levels. Seating areas and refreshment options are spread across the property, allowing you to take breaks and enjoy your surroundings.

A distinctive feature is a giant redwood tree that stands out against the landscape and gets decorated with lights during winter months. This decoration has become a popular tradition that draws many visitors during the colder season.

Location: Ardingly

Operator: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Part of: National Trust

Address: Selsfield Road

Phone: +441444894066

Email: wakehurst@kew.org

Website: https://kew.org/wakehurst/visit-wakehurst

GPS coordinates: 51.06720,-0.08894

Latest update: December 13, 2025 18:03