The gardens consist of beautiful Pleasure Grounds and a four-acre Walled Garden. It is certain that the Garden pre-dates the House – it is thought the land was first cultivated as far back as the 14th century by its owners, monks from the monastery of Westminster. The site’s open aspect, sheltered by the South Downs, would no doubt have made it an appealing location with a productive fruit and vegetable garden.
Today you can discover four distinct areas, celebrating the best traditions of English walled gardens. There are herbaceous borders, a glasshouse, vegetable garden, orchard and a 1920s Wendy House. The garden is now run on organic principles, producing its own compost and is able to be self-sufficient, providing enough mulch and rich compost for the entire site.