Great Dixter
A Legendary English Garden
If you find yourself in East Sussex and want to spend a few hours enjoying some creative garden genius, then make a stop at Great Dixter. This sumptuous garden was created by the celebrated gardener and writer Christopher Lloyd. He fashioned a dazzling display, where plants spill over pathways, riotous colour schemes defy convention, and every inch hums with life.
For those who love bold, experimental gardening and immersive, naturalistic planting, get ready for a thrilling experience…
A Brief History
At the heart of Great Dixter is a medieval manor house that dates back to the 15th century. In the early 20th century, it was expanded by the renowned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens. His legacy was a blending of historic charm with Arts and Crafts elegance.
However, it was Christopher Lloyd who transformed Great Dixter into the horticultural paradise it is today. His fearless approach to planting - mixing perennials with exotics, topiary with wildflowers - created an unforgettable, ever-changing garden.
The Arts and Crafts Movement, which emerged in the late 19th century, played a significant role in shaping Great Dixter’s architectural style. This movement emphasized craftsmanship, natural materials, and a harmonious connection between buildings and their surroundings. William Morris was one of the leading figures of the movement.
Exploring the Gardens
The Exotic Garden
This is Christopher Lloyd’s most famous experiment. It’s one of the last things you’d expect to find in England - a lush, tropical spectacle that turns traditional English gardening on its head. Originally a rose garden, Lloyd replaced it with towering banana plants, fiery cannas, and deep-hued castor oil plants, proving that the English climate can sustain the unexpected. This dynamic and dramatic space is a must-see if you’re looking for daring planting inspiration.
The Long Border
One of Great Dixter’s most renowned features, the Long Border is a masterclass in succession planting. Stretching over 60 metres (196 feet) it’s a constantly evolving tapestry of perennials, annuals, and shrubs, with dazzling colour schemes that shift through the seasons. From spring tulips and wallflowers to late-summer dahlias and rudbeckias (Black-eyed Susan), this border always has something new. Christopher believed there should be no bare ground visible from May onwards, so the garden is overflowing with plants.
The Meadow
Unlike traditional, formal gardens, Great Dixter embraces intentional wild gardening, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Meadow. Overflowing with native wildflowers and swaying grasses, this area supports pollinators and wildlife, demonstrating the beauty and ecological value of naturalistic planting. The Meadow is a tranquil, unstructured counterpoint to the vibrant borders, showcasing the power of biodiversity in garden design. See if you can spot the native orchids that grow here.
The Peacock Garden
Another of Great Dixter’s interesting spaces, the Peacock Garden is named after the carefully clipped topiary peacocks that add an element of whimsy and structure to the area. The contrast between these meticulously shaped forms and the exuberant planting style that surrounds them exemplifies Christopher Lloyd’s approach to garden design - where control and chaos exist in perfect harmony. Seasonal flowers weave through the neatly sculpted hedges, adding splashes of colour that shift throughout the year. This garden is a favourite for photographers and those who appreciate the artistry of topiary and naturalistic planting combined.
The Solar Garden
The Solar Garden is a hidden gem, bursting with warmth and vibrancy. Designed to capture as much sunlight as possible, this garden features a rich palette of sun-loving plants, from bright marigolds and rudbeckias to drought-tolerant perennials like echinacea and sedums. The planting here celebrates heat and light, creating a glowing, golden tapestry that shines throughout the summer months. This area exemplifies Christopher’s love for bold, seasonal colour schemes and his willingness to push the boundaries of traditional English garden design.
Other Garden Highlights
The Blue Garden
The Sunk Garden
The Wall Garden (look for the pebble mosaic of Christopher’s two dogs Canna and Dahlia)
The Horse Pond
The High Garden
Guided Tours
Great Dixter offers a wide range of guided tours and learning events, ranging from an hour to full and multi-day events. Check out the garden’s calendar of events.
Enjoy a virtual tour of Great Dixter. Video credit: National Garden Scheme
When is the Best Time to Visit?
This is a garden that changes dramatically through the seasons. Lloyd was a master at succession planting, so no matter what time of year you find yourself here, there will be something worth seeing.
Spring (April - May): A dazzling display of tulips, wallflowers, and fresh new foliage.
Summer (June - August): The garden reaches its peak, bursting with colour, texture, and lush growth.
Autumn (September - October): Rich autumn hues dominate, with late-flowering perennials and striking seed heads.
Winter (November - March): The house and garden, shop and cafe are closed, however there are various events held throughout the season including guided winter interest tours. The nursery is still open.
Top Tips for Visiting Great Dixter
Arrive Early: The gardens can get busy, especially in peak season. Arriving early ensures you have time to explore at a leisurely pace.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Many of the pathways are uneven or grassy, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is recommended.
Bring a Notebook or Camera: Great Dixter is full of planting inspiration - taking notes or photos can help you remember combinations you’d love to try at home.
Look Out for Special Events: Workshops, plant fairs, and lectures happen throughout the year. Check out the garden’s calendar of events.
Visit the Nursery: The on-site nursery is packed with plants that Christopher Lloyd deemed “garden worthy”, many of which are grown at Dixter itself - perfect if you’d like a slice of this iconic garden at home.
Beyond the Gardens
While you’re in the East Sussex area, there are plenty of other attractions to explore.
Bodiam Castle: A picture-perfect moated medieval castle just a short drive away.
Rye: A charming historic town filled with antique shops, winding cobbled streets, and cosy tea rooms.
Camber Sands: A stunning sandy beach that’s ideal for a seaside walk or a relaxing afternoon by the water.
How to Get to Great Dixter from London
Great Dixter makes for an excellent day trip from London.
By Car: The gardens are well signposted and can be reached via the A28. The drive from London is about 90 minutes. Parking is available on-site.
By Train: The nearest train stations with connecting bus service to Northiam are Rye and Hastings, both of which have connections to London and other major towns. From these stations, a taxi or bus ride is required to reach Great Dixter. Check the timetable to plan your trip.
By Bus: Buses run from Rye and Hastings to Northiam daily. From where it is a short walk to Great Dixter. Bus service on Sunday is very limited. The journey takes about half an hour from Rye and an hour from Hastings. Check the timetable to plan your trip.
By Taxi: Taxis are available from Rye and Hastings stations, providing a convenient way to reach the gardens. For more information on taxi services.
By Tour: There are also some tour options which include both Great Dixter and Sissinghurst
Gardens of Kent: Sissinghurst and Great Dixter by Luxury Vacations UK
This private driver-guided tour offers a full-day experience exploring two of England's most cherished gardens: Sissinghurst Castle and Great Dixter. The itinerary is customizable, allowing you to tailor the day to your interests. Includes a pub lunch and luxury transport.
Kent "Garden of England" Sampler by Special Group Tours
This tour takes you through the scenic countryside of Kent, visiting renowned gardens including Sissinghurst and Great Dixter. It's an excellent way to experience the horticultural beauty of the region.
Extend Your Stay
While Great Dixter can be comfortably visited as a day trip from London, East Sussex is well worth exploring, so you may want to stay overnight. The nearby towns of Rye and Tenterden offer charming boutique hotels, cosy B&Bs, and historic inns, making them great bases for a longer trip. Staying overnight will also give you time to visit other attractions such as Bodiam Castle and the picturesque coastline at Camber Sands.
Where to Eat
Exploring great gardens builds an appetite! If you’re looking to refuel, there are some great options for delicious local food.
The Loggia Cafe – Located on-site, the cafe offers home-cooked light lunches, homemade cakes, and refreshing teas with views of the garden. Meals include veges grown in the garden and food from local producers.
The White Hart, Newenden – A cozy country pub just a short drive away in Rye. It serves traditional British fare and seasonal dishes made with local ingredients in a friendly atmosphere. They also offer accommodation.
The George in Rye – A stylish hotel and restaurant in a former 16th century coaching inn. Their menu features locally sourced ingredients and contemporary British cuisine.
FAQ: Visiting Great Dixter
Where is Great Dixter?
Great Dixter House & Gardens, Northiam, Rye, East Sussex, TN31 6PH, UK
How much does it cost?
In 2025, the entry price is £17.00 for adults and £5.50 for children (5-15 years)
Tickets cannot be pre-booked.
Free entry for Historic House Association members. If you plan to visit multiple Historic House attractions, an annual pass offers great value - even if you’re just visiting the UK.
What are the opening hours?
Gardens: Open daily from April to October, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Nursery: Open year-round (hours vary by season)
How much time should I plan for a visit?
Give yourself 2 to 3 hours to explore the gardens. If you want to take a guided tour or visit the nursery, allow extra time.
Is Great Dixter wheelchair accessible?
The gardens are accessible, however there are some areas of the garden that are not suitable for wheelchairs or prams. In August and September the paths can become very narrow due to plants and may not be accessible. There are wheelchairs available to borrow - pre-booking required.
Can I bring my dog?
Only assistance dogs are allowed in the gardens, but dogs on leads are welcome in the car park and surrounding areas.
Are there guided tours available?
Yes! Guided tours are available on select days, offering deeper insight into the history, planting philosophy, and legacy of Great Dixter. Find out more.
Can I buy plants at Great Dixter?
Yes! The on-site nursery offers a selection of plants grown at Dixter, perfect for taking a little piece of the garden home with you.
What Makes Great Dixter Special?
What makes this garden special is the bold and experimental planting. Christopher Lloyd was something of a visionary gardener - unafraid to take chances and ignore conventional ideas about gardening.
A Living Legacy - Unlike many historic gardens, Great Dixter remains an evolving and dynamic space, where innovative planting combinations continue to be developed by expert gardeners.
Immersive Garden Design - Expect overflowing borders, unexpected colour combinations, and a joyful sense of organised chaos that makes every turn of a path a surprise.
Ecological and Sustainable Practices - The garden champions biodiversity, naturalistic planting, and sustainable gardening methods, making it both beautiful and environmentally conscious.
A Place of Learning - Gardeners of all levels can gain inspiration from its workshops, tours, and plant nursery, offering valuable insights into the art of planting design.
A Truly Unique Atmosphere - The fusion of medieval architecture, Arts and Crafts aesthetics, and wild, unrestrained gardening creates something quite unique.
Great Dixter is more than a garden - it’s an experience, a philosophy, and an inspiration. It’s filled with such exuberance and life! And yet, despite the riot of creativity, it never feels contrived. There’s a glorious wildness here, a sense that nature is nudging at the edges, softening the formality of the historic house with a carefree sprawl of self-seeding blooms. It’s a garden that invites exploration.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or simply someone who appreciates beautiful spaces, this garden will leave you brimming with ideas. Step inside this extraordinary world of horticultural artistry, and let Great Dixter’s bold beauty energize you.