Sheffield Park Garden

You’ll discover one of England’s most extraordinary landscaped gardens at Sheffield Park. Designed in the 18th century by the legendary ‘Capability’ Brown and later developed by owner Arthur G Soames, the garden spans 250 acres and revolves around four magnificent lakes that mirror the surrounding planting of rare trees and shrubs. The garden is celebrated for its spectacular autumn colour—a riot of golds, reds, and crimsons that draw visitors from across the country—but it’s equally beautiful in every season, from spring’s fragrant rhododendrons and the National Collection of Ghent Azaleas to summer’s waterlilies and winter’s architectural evergreens.

Location Details

• County: East Sussex
• Postcode: TN22 3QX (between Haywards Heath and Uckfield, 30 minutes south of London)

What You’ll Experience

• Four interconnected lakes: Walk the scenic circular routes through wooded glens, crossing charming bridges and discovering quiet corners where the water catches the light. Each lake has its own character—the upper lake is peaceful and reflective, while the lower reaches feature dramatic cascades.
• The Big Tree Walk: Explore 14,500 trees, including 80 champion specimens—among them a Giant Redwood and an oak tree that’s been standing since 1485. The trees are labelled and mapped, making for a rewarding self-guided tour.
• Seasonal planting: Spring brings fragrant magnolias and azaleas; summer sees waterlilies and roses; autumn is a masterclass in colour; winter reveals the garden’s bones and evergreen structure.
• Family activities: Seasonal activity trails with games and challenges, children’s play areas, and plenty of wide, pushchair-friendly paths alongside the lakes.

Good to Know

• Duration: Allow 2–3 hours for a full circuit; you can easily spend a day here with picnics and leisurely exploration.
• Entry: Free for National Trust members; book online in advance for the best prices. Family tickets and group rates are available.
• Getting there: Car is easiest (free parking for all visitors). The site is near the Bluebell Railway if you want to combine attractions. Public transport: train to Haywards Heath or Uckfield, then taxi or local bus.
• Facilities: Shop, plant shop, cafés and tearoom. Dogs welcome on leads in the grounds.
• Accessibility: Mostly flat terrain with wide paths, though some areas are steep around the lakes. Mobility aids and buggies are catered for; contact ahead for specific needs.
• Seasons: Open most of the year (check website for closures). Peak times: spring (azaleas) and autumn (colour). Winter brings a quieter, more contemplative experience.

Eat, Drink & Stay Nearby

The garden itself has a café and tearoom serving coffee, cake, and light lunches. Nearby Haywards Heath and Uckfield have pubs and restaurants for evening meals. The wider Sheffield Park estate includes a gardener’s cottage (sleeps 2) if you want to stay within the grounds—otherwise the area is rich in country cottage rentals and small country hotels.

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