The counties of Kent, Surrey, and Sussex are often referred to as the ‘garden of England’. These counties boast a wealth of history and horticulture, combined with wooded valleys, and meandering waterways, making them home to some of the most interesting gardens in the United Kingdom.
The South East has traditionally been a popular holiday spot for Londoners, with its grand houses and castles, many of which have palatial gardens. The area is also associated with famous gardeners and designers, such as Vita Sackville-West and Gertrude Jekyll.
Arundel Castle Gardens
The walled gardens at Arundel Castle, owned by the Duke and Duchess of Norfolk, are a notable example of the region’s horticultural gems. Despite being surrounded by the castle’s battlements and the Victorian cathedral, the gardens hold their own, thanks to the vision of the owners and the head gardener, Martin Duncan.
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Arundel Castle has been the seat of the Dukes of Norfolk since the twelfth century, and its 40 acres have undergone significant changes over the years. The current Duke and Duchess have been instrumental in creating new gardens and plantings, with Martin Duncan at the helm. They have worked to create a unique blend of old and new.
Malthouse Farm
Malthouse Farm, owned by Richard and Helen Keys, is another example of the region’s secret gardens. The 5.5 acres of land were transformed from a field and stable yard into a series of intimate garden rooms and large-scale field installations.
Helen Keys has experimented with color and form, creating enclosed areas and using simple shapes and repeating plants to transform a former field into two installations of land art. The garden also features a view of the South Downs, providing a majestic backdrop.
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Richard appreciates the garden’s proximity to the Downs and the variety of plants, while Helen enjoys the seasonal canvas it provides, which she can continue to mold and embellish. They both enjoy different aspects of the garden.
These secret gardens offer a glimpse into the region’s rich horticultural heritage.
They are a must-visit for anyone interested in gardens and history.
