Nymans

About the garden

Owned by

National Trust

This garden for all seasons, with rare and unusual plant collections, is set around a romantic house and partial ruins. The comfortable, yet elegant, house reflects the personalities and stories of the talented Messel family. 

In spring see blossoms, bulbs and a stunning collection of subtly fragranced magnolias. The Rose Garden, inspired by Maud Messel’s 1920s design, is scented by hints of old-fashioned roses. Dramatic shows of vibrant native tree colour in autumn precede winter’s structural form, with pockets of perfumed daphne throughout the garden. Discover hidden corners through stone archways, and walk along tree-lined avenues surrounded by the lush countryside of the Sussex Weald. The adjoining woodland, wildflower meadows, streams and lake provide plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife.    

There is a shop and plant centre, second-hand bookshop and a choice of cafes, with a welcome cafe at the entrance to the garden, and Riding House next to the house for afternoon tea and wait to table service. A horsebox in the garden serves light refreshments during peak times.     

There are events and activities for all the family throughout the year, and changing exhibitions all year round in the gallery (gallery closes for short periods to change exhibitions).

Please note: this garden is partially accessible.