Rotherfield Park

Rotherfield Park is a country house built between 1815 and 1821 with Tudor-Gothic styling that includes towers and crenellated battlements throughout its structure. The estate sits at an elevated location and features historic glasshouses in its gardens where peaches, apricots, and vines were grown.

The site was first recorded in 1015 as Hrytherafeld, meaning open pasture for cattle. It evolved into a medieval hunting park by the 16th century before the current house took its final form in the early 1800s.

The house appeared in the 1994 film Four Weddings and a Funeral, where it served as a Scottish castle for a key scene. This film connection has made it recognizable to audiences interested in cinema history, though the production itself is now decades past.

The estate is not open for regular visits but opens occasionally during National Gardens Scheme events held throughout the year. Visitors should check ahead for specific opening dates, as these are limited and happen only at particular times.

The elevated location at approximately 600 meters protects the historic fruit and vine crops from late spring frosts, which is crucial for growing delicate varieties. This natural advantage allowed earlier occupants to successfully cultivate peaches and other tender fruits in this part of England.

Location: East Tisted

GPS coordinates: 51.08580,-1.00940

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:03