High Beeches is an independently owned Conservation Trust in West Sussex. The gardens are open from March until late November and the highlights are the array of rare and beautiful rhododendrons in spring and early summer, the summer carpet of bluebells and the spectacular display of autumn tree colour. The gardens include rare, exotic and unusual plants collected by  the renowned horticulturalist Colonel Giles Loder. High Beeches is one of the great gardens of Sussex.

The Beeches was bought by Sir Robert Loder in 1846, and his grandson Colonel Giles Loder went on to create the garden we see today. Colonel Loder was influenced by his friend and neighbour John G Millais, founder of Milias Rhododendron nursery in Churt. Some of Millais’ advice included: ‘Do not overcrowd, avoid over concentration on one genus and use only the best plants, this will help to produce a harmonious balance between landscape and appreciation of individual plants’. Col Loder followed Millais's advice, using naturalistic planting, to create the beautiful woodland garden that is High Beeches today.

The garden was bought by Edward and Anne Boscawen who continued to develop the garden as the Colonel intended. His legacy lives on and the mature 27 acre garden is listed Grade II* by English Heritage as an outstanding example of an early 20th century woodland garden.

Recommended Meeting Time: 1pm to visit tea room for refreshments prior to tour

Guided Tour:  2 -3.30pm given by two knowledgeable guides.

Maximum number: 30 people (will be broken into two groups of 15 people)

SGT Members: £17 pp.
Does not include refreshments. If space permits members may be able to bring guests.

Please note that garden paths are unmade and uneven and consequently, can be slippery when wet.