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Sheffield Park, East Sussex

From 1796 until 1910 Sheffield Park was owned by the Earls of Sheffield. The power and influence of the Earls is of course apparent in the size of the house and grounds. But it is perhaps even more clearly demonstrated by the close proximity of Sheffield Park station on the Bluebell steam railway. In 1877 an act was passed to authorise the construction of the Lewes to East Grinstead Railway. The line was sponsored by a number of local landowners, including the Earl of Sheffield. It was accepted practice at this time for the supporters of a rural railway line to have stations built near their properties. So Sheffield Park station is miles from any village, but was available to serve as the Earl's own station whenever he wanted it.

Sheffield Park is a Capability designed landscape park first laid out in the eighteenth century. Later additions to the garden can also be seen. The exotic plants in the garden are the echo of the vast improvement in communications at the end of the nineteenth century. Using plants from overseas, particularly the Far East, became quite the fashion. The arboretum containing these exotic trees and plants was established in 1885.

The garden offers beautiful walks centred around four interlinked lakes. The garden is particularly beautiful in autumn.

Steam trains still use Sheffield Park station.

Opening Times: are generally Tuesday to Sunday, 10.30am - 5.30pm. There is Monday opening in May and October. In January and February opening is confined to weekends, and gates close at 4pm. Check before you visit.

 

Directions: Sheffield Park is half way between East Grinstead and Lewes off the A275 in East Sussex. Click here for an interactive road and satellite map centred on Sheffield Park.

Access: a map outlining accessible routes is available. Adapted toilet facilities can be found next to the reception building. Two seater vehicles are available, for which booking is essential.

Contact:

telephone: 01825 790231

web site: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-sheffieldparkgarden.htm