Best Spring Gardens in East Sussex
A Bloom-Lover’s Guide to the Season’s Prettiest Spots
There’s something truly magical about springtime in East Sussex. As the chill of winter fades, gardens across the county erupt into life - borders brimming with tulips, orchards frosted with blossom, and winding paths edged with daffodils and forget-me-nots. Whether you’re chasing the first flush of colour or planning a garden day out with tea and cake, here are six of the very best gardens to visit in East Sussex this spring.
Pashley Manor Gardens, Ticehurst
If tulips are your springtime obsession, Pashley Manor is paradise. From late April to early May, the gardens are transformed by more than 40,000 tulips in full, glorious bloom. Think vibrant reds, blushing pinks, creamy whites, and elegant purples, all arranged with artistic flair against a backdrop of historic charm. The old brick walls covered in wisteria perfectly complement the vibrant tulips. There’s also a woodland walk, bluebells, and one of the prettiest garden cafés in Sussex—perfect for tea and homemade cake after a morning of flower-gazing.
Matthew J. Thomas/iStock
Great Dixter, Northiam
Spring at Great Dixter is a celebration of texture and structure. Christopher Lloyd’s famed garden bursts to life with architectural foliage, tulips, forget-me-nots, and a fearless clash of colour that somehow works beautifully. It’s not your average spring border—here, bold is beautiful, and every plant has something to say. Arrive early to soak up the stillness before the crowds, and don’t skip the plant nursery.
Sheffield Park and Garden, near Uckfield
For sweeping views and lakeside walks, Sheffield Park is spring perfection. Magnolias bloom like pink and white fireworks above the water, rhododendrons begin to open, and winding paths lead through vibrant spring scenes reflected in still, mirror-like lakes. Bring your camera, a flask of something warm, and get ready for one of the most peaceful garden walks in the county.
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Herstmonceux Castle Gardens, Hailsham
Moated castle? Check. Woodland glades? Check. Secret gardens and spring bulbs around every corner? Absolutely. Herstmonceux Castle Gardens offer something a little different—a heady mix of history, romance, and seasonal colour. The daffodils are a highlight in early spring, and as April unfolds, the garden rooms come to life with flowering shrubs and birdsong. You do need to book tickets ahead of time – you can book via their website.
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Michelham Priory, Upper Dicker
Tucked away in a quiet corner of the county, Michelham Priory is a peaceful spot for a spring wander. The medieval priory sits on a moated island and the surrounding gardens feel timeless and intimate—orchards blooming with blossom, simple but elegant borders, and the kind of quiet beauty that invites you to linger. Look out for wildlife too: the grounds are full of birds, bees, and the occasional sleepy duck. You can pre-book tickets at their website.
Photo Credit: Mark Wordy
Bateman’s, Burwash
Once home to Rudyard Kipling, Bateman’s is pure storybook charm in spring. Daffodils scatter the lawns, the orchard stirs into blossom, and the house itself—with its sandstone walls and mullioned windows—sits quietly amid the fresh greenery. It’s the kind of place where you might imagine a poet scribbling verses under a tree. The walk down to the watermill is especially lovely this time of year.
Photo Credit: Mark Wordy
Tips for Visiting in Spring
April is prime time for daffodils, tulips, magnolias, and early blossoms.
Try to visit mid-week for fewer crowds and easier parking.
Wear shoes you don’t mind getting a bit muddy—spring gardens can be soggy!
Always check opening times and ticketing, especially for seasonal openings.
Welcome spring at one of these gorgeous East Sussex gardens
East Sussex in spring is a patchwork of gardens coming into bloom, each with its own rhythm and charm. Whether you’re wandering through tulip-strewn borders or pausing by a quiet moat under flowering trees, these gardens offer a beautiful way to welcome the season. Pack a picnic, charge your camera, and let the blossoms lead the way.