Ridges and valleys, great soil and an unbelievable range of microclimates

The gardens’ situations – at ridges on the top of the High Weald and in the valleys below – and acidic soils create perfect Spring growing conditions for azalea, magnolia, rhododendron and carpets of bluebells. Flower borders, roses and wildflower meadows are best seen in Summer; the magnificent colours of acer, cornus, daphnes in the Winter/Spring; and snowdrops in Winter. Ancient woodland, stone pits, formal gardens and lawns also create a variety of microclimates that are perfectly suited to plants collected from around the world. Amazingly, in some gardens cannas, echiums and bananas can grow happily outside without protection.