Here in Britain, we’re a nation of garden lovers – fact. With spring now in full swing, and the flowers out in force, there’s never been a better time to get exploring some of the best gardens Britain has to offer.
Chichester and the surrounding areas are renowned for their beautiful parks and gardens. And with this in mind, here we thought we’d take a closer look at the glorious gardens, located within easy reach of Chichester, that are well worth exploring.
So from rolling parklands to picturesque kitchen gardens, read on as we look at some of our favourites – enjoy!
West Dean Gardens
West Dean Gardens is a haven of tranquillity located in the heart of the rolling South Downs. It’s quite simply one of the best gardens in all of England. And the great thing is that it’s open to the public too.
With over 90 acres to explore, the gardens here are full of inspiration, whether you’re an avid gardener or not.
The grounds here include a wonderful walled kitchen garden that is one of the finest examples of its kind.
The kitchen garden features an array of exotic blooms and is brimming with a selection of fragrant flowers too. But it’s the huge variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables that take centre stage.
The garden is laid out according to a classic Victorian design. Step through its walls and you will feel almost as though you have been transported back to this bygone era.
West Dean Gardens is also home to some of the finest glasshouses in the country.
Make sure to explore the garden’s enchanting 300ft Edwardian pergola too. This stunning structure is covered in an array of striking climbing roses and honeysuckle.
The beautiful sunken garden – which was the 2014 winner of the Sussex Heritage Trusts’ Garden and Landscape Award – also recently reopened after undergoing a 6 year restoration project. This area of the gardens is more intimate and sheltered, and is an idyllic sport for enjoying a little peace and quiet.
Bishop Palace Gardens
Nestled behind Chichester’s charming cathedral is the Bishop Palace garden. This garden is a real hidden treasure and you’d be hard pressed to find another like it.
The garden is an oasis of calm in the midst of the city and includes everything from wildlife areas to water features.
It has an intriguing history too, and you can find out more about this by perusing the various boards scattered throughout its grounds.
The garden’s beautiful, meandering pathways are perfect for enjoying a leisurely stroll, as you take in all this resplendent garden has to offer.
Petworth House and Park
The magnificence of this fine stately home is matched only by the undeniable splendour of its gardens.
This 18th century park was designed by acclaimed landscape architect Lancelot Brown. He transformed the garden from a small fruit and vegetable patch into the glorious garden it is today.
The park is an ideal spot for walkers and garden lovers alike. And from here you can enjoy far-reaching views across the South Downs.
The park has provided the inspiration for many an artist, and has even been immortalised in the paintings of Turner!
The garden is particularly spectacular during the spring, when an array of seasonal blooms, including daffodils, are out in full force.
These grounds are steeped in history too and feature a number of ancient trees, some of which have been standing for nearly a thousand years. Pretty incredible right?!
The estate also features a deer park and is home to a magnificent herd of approximately 900 fallow deer.
According to the National Trust, the herd is thought to be the oldest in England too. So make sure to try and catch a glimpse of these graceful creatures for yourself.
These are just a selection of the fantastic gardens located near Chichester.
Fancy exploring these floral wonderlands for yourself, and looking for the ideal place to stay during your trip? Then here at the Crouchers Hotel we can help. As one of the best Chichester hotels, we’re the perfect option.
For more information, simply contact us today by giving us a call on 01243 784 995 and a member of our friendly team will be happy to help you with your enquiries.
