Sheffield Park Garden is an informal landscape garden five miles east of Haywards Heath, near Uckfield in East Sussex. The garden is a horticultural work of art formed through centuries of landscape design, with influences of ‘Capability’ Brown and Humphry Repton. Four lakes form the heart of the garden, with paths circulating through the glades and wooded areas surrounding them.
Each owner has left their impression, which can still be seen today in the layout of the lakes, the construction of Pulham Falls, the planting of Palm Walk and the many different tree and shrub species from around the world.
The historic parkland forms a larger footprint for the Sheffield Park estate. Dating back several centuries, it has had many uses including a deer park and WWII camp, and is now grazed with livestock and home to the natural woodland play trail in Ringwood Toll.
The River Ouse runs across the bottom of the parkland and the original meanders are still visible winding across the meadow. This area has been transformed into a wildlife haven and is home to a diverse range of species including kingfishers, birds of prey, butterflies, and dragonflies.
Sheffield Park comes alive with colour mid-May – June as the 1,000 species of Rhododendrons come into bloom. Deeply fragranced corridors of colour are reflected back by the mirror-like lakes as you stroll through the gardens. Very relaxing watching people of all ages having picnics and enjoying the peacefulness in the sunshine.
Parking is free and the garden is open daily between 10am and 5pm. The Coach House café is open with indoor and outdoor seating where you can grab a coffee and cake. The Shant is open daily for takeaways. Dogs are currently welcome in the garden on a short lead too.
