Woolbeding was given to the National Trust by the Lascelles family in 1957. In 1972 the estate was leased to Simon Sainsbury, who with his partner Stewart Grimshaw, restored this 17th century house and garden.
The formal garden rooms were created by Lanning Roper and have predominantly been planted as colour themed borders with clear evergreen structures of yew hedges. These rooms consist of the Fountain Garden, vegetable garden, orangery with its swimming pool, well garden and herb garden. These along with the hot borders and west borders comprise the formal part of the garden near the house and All Hallows Church.
Sundial in the Herb Garden. Photo credit: National Trust Images, James Dobson
From there one can enjoy beautiful walks along the river and then walk either to The Longwalk or the Glasshouse and its surrounding gardens, the Silk Route.
In the 1990s Julian and Isabel Bannerman were commissioned to develop The Longwalk, a wooded pleasure garden. Visitors will enjoy architectural structures such as the Chinese Bridge, Gothic summer house, ruined abbey and the surrounding planting that blend harmoniously with the rock and water features that exist here. The views are delightful!
Gothic Summerhouse in the Longwalk designed by Isabel and Julian Bannerman. photo credit: S Sticpewich
In 2022, the National Trust unveiled their new glasshouse designed by Heatherwick Studio. This mesmerising ten-sided ‘kinetic’ glasshouse with ‘sepals’ that open and close to maintain the correct climate for the planting inside. This new glasshouse is set within a series of garden zones that are meant to exemplify the flora and habitats along the Silk Route between Asia and Europe. The planting is diverse and interesting with zones ranging from the Mediterranean climate of Istanbul to the Tian Shan mountain zone in China. Definitely a spot worth exploring and noting the interesting plants and habitats. For more information on the glasshouse visit here.
Photo credit: Woolbeding Glasshouse by Sheri Sticpewich
SGT members will need to meet at The Grange carpark at Midhurst where a specially reserved coach just for this trip will collect us and drop us off at Woolbeding. There is no parking at Woolbeding! We will have an introductory tour upon arrival and then you will be able to explore the gardens at your leisure. Return coach to The Grange carpark has been organised for 2pm/2.30pm. Specific instructions regarding travel will be provided one week before the visit.
The cafe will be open serving tea, coffee, cake, sandwiches and ice cream. Please note that picnics are allowed anywhere in the garden as well.
SGT & National Trust Members: £15pp
SGT & Non-National Trust Members: £26pp
This includes coach transfer to/from Woolbeding and Midhurst carpark, introductory talk and entrance to the gardens. Does NOT include any refreshments.
Maximum number: 38 people