Borde Hill Garden

About

Borde Hill is a 2,000-acre Estate which has been owned by the Stephenson Clarke family for over 130 years. At the heart lies a Grade II listed Elizabethan Mansion House set within a stunningly beautiful and botanically rich landscaped Garden and traditional Parkland, open to visitors annually from February to December.

Listed by English Heritage as being of Grade II* historic importance and set in 383 acres of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the High Weald, Borde Hill is of national botanical importance. The Garden is renowned for its impressive collection of rare and exotic trees, shrubs, and plants, many grown from seeds collected by Colonel Stephenson R Clarke, a horticultural pioneer who sponsored plant hunting trips around the world. The result is one of the rarest collections of privately owned champion trees in the UK and one of the only places you can see plants from all four corners of the world. Planted as a series of outdoor ‘garden rooms’, each with its own unique style and character, highlights include the Azalea Ring, the tranquil Italian Garden, stunning Rose Garden, perennial borders and sub-tropical dells.

Experience ‘joyous balance’ and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Garden. From woodland walks to Specialist Plant Fairs, wellbeing workshops and family activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For Groups (15+), we offer a discounted entry rate, pre-booked Garden tours and bespoke catering options served inside a dedicated marquee.

The 17 acre formal Garden has easy access routes and gentle sloping paths. Free parking, Gift Shop, Plant Nursery, Cafe, Dogs on leads welcome.

 

Food & Drink

Ginkgo & the Summerhouse Café
Open seasonally from 10am between 14th February and 23rd December.

Ginkgo

Located inside our visitor entrance building, Ginkgo is our bright, sunshine-hued coffee shop serving barista coffee, homemade cakes and bakes, savoury treats, and freshly prepared sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients.
Ginkgo is open to everyone and does not require Garden admission.
 

Summerhouse Café
Set within the Garden, the Summerhouse Café is the perfect spot to pause and refuel during your visit, offering the same great coffee and delicious homemade food in a beautiful garden setting.

Both cafés have outdoor seating, card payments only, and we welcome dogs on short leads.