Stunning Sussex Gardens Open for Charity near Steyning This Year
Many Sussex Gardens open for charity each year under the National Garden Scheme. This scheme provides visitors unique access to over 3,700 exceptional private gardens in England and Wales, and raises impressive amounts of money for nursing and health charities through admissions, teas and cake.
St Mary’s House Gardens
The lovely gardens at St Mary’s House are just a mile from Steyning. There are five acres that you can explore.
They will open on Friday 26th June and on Friday 3rd July from 2 to 5. Admission is £11.
You’ll find formal topiary, a large prehistoric Ginkgo biloba and magnificent Magnolia grandiflora around a timber-framed medieval house. The Victorian Secret Gardens include a splendid 140 feet fruit wall, with pineapple pits.
Refreshments will be available in the tearoom.
Opening dates in 2025
Friday 27th June; Saturday 28th June from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Gardens within Steyning
Both 15 Penlands Rise; and Nightingale House, Twittenside, Penfold Way will open on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st June from 10.30 to 5.00 in 2026. Enjoy home made teas at Nightingale House (cashless payments only). Admission for the two gardens is £10.
15 Penlands Rise is a small cottage garden which has evolved into a series of borders and island beds with narrow paths in between. There are roses, clematis, many salvias and perennials and a collection of over 100 pots – some with hydrangeas, but most with a colourful mix of annuals and tender plants.
Nightingale Cottage garden has been recently redesigned and replanted with many perennials and summer annuals.
Bignor Park Gardens
You will find 11 acres of gardens to explore, with fantastic views of the South Downs. You’ll see interesting trees, shrubs, wildflower areas and a beautiful walled garden with herbaceous borders.. Wander and admire the temple, Greek loggia, Zen pond and unusual sculptures. Hoe made teas are on offer.
Bignor Park is in West Sussex, RH20 1HG. It is 5 miles south of Petworth & Pulborough. It is well sign posted from the B2138. The nearest villages are Sutton, Bignor & West Burton. It’s just a 30 minute drive from Rosebud Holiday Cottage in Steyning!
Opening Dates in 2026
12th May,16th June and 22nd Sept from 2 – 5 p.m. Admission £7. Teas are available!
Find other gardens open for charity
Read about the best gardens in Sussex
