Sheffield Park Garden

Near Uckfield

East Sussex

Sheffield Park Garden in East Sussex is renowned for its spectacular array of autumn colour. Its wonderful display is undoubtedly one of the best in the south east and, over the next few weeks, visitors can enjoy it at its peak.

The garden dates back to the Doomsday Book (when Sheffield meant sheep clearing) but autumn colour was introduced by Arthur Soames nearly a hundred years ago.

It was Soames' passion for North American plant species that means visitors today don't have to go all the way to the USA to enjoy the amazing "fall" colours.

The vivid jewel tones that decorate the graceful Acer palmatum (Japanese maple) are echoed by the equally beautiful Nyssa sylvatica (tupelo). The shapely leaves of Parrotia persica (Persian ironwood) turn brilliant crimson and gold while Liquidambar (sweet gum) adds a deep plummy red to the landscape.

As well as offering a feast for the eyes, the garden also benefits from one of the more unusual scents of autumn courtesy of Cercidiphyllum japonicum, or 'the burnt sugar tree', whose fallen leaves fill the air with the sweet smell of candy-floss.

Enhancing the beauty are five large lakes with still, clear water that mirrors the colourful shapes at its edge almost perfectly while cascading water creates it own magical atmosphere.

Among the many trees and shrubs there are even some that are specific to the garden, including Nyssa sylvatica 'Sheffield Park', Nyssa sylvatica 'Isabel Grace' (named after the head gardener's daughter) and Quecus robur 'Sheffield Park'.

As well as the garden, visitors can also enjoy 265 acres of newly opened parkland. In 2006 the National Trust was presented with a rare opportunity to acquire the Grade I listed park, which was once part of the Sheffield Park Estate. The Trust seized the chance to reunite this site with the garden and since then it has been working to restore it for the benefit of wildlife and the public. Now it is open for everyone to enjoy all year round.

Events:

Autumn Garden Tours

Tuesdays and Thursdays in October, 11am

Enjoy a tour with one of the experienced garden stewards to see the beautiful autumn colour and learn about Sheffield Park Garden. Normal admission charges apply

Seeds and Saplings

Thursday October 16, 10am to 3pm

A rare opportunity to see professional seed collection in action, followed by a chance to have a go and learn how to plant trees for the best results. Plus, take home a tree of your own. Booking essential. £10

Autumn Painting Day

Friday October 17, 9.30am to 3.30pm

Come and paint the garden at one of its most beautiful times. Experience is needed and a professional artist will be on hand to advise you. Tea and cake included. Booking essential. £38

Autumn Colour Parkland Walk

Friday October 24, 11am to 1pm

An opportunity to visit the park at this beautiful time of the year and enjoy the stunning autumn colours. Hear about the management and conservation of the trees and woodlands and enjoy a guided tour around the historic parkland. Assistance dogs only. Booking essential. £5

Autumn Photographic Workshop

Monday November 10, 10am to 4pm

Spend the day among the stunning autumn colour with National Trust photographer Stephen Robson. Tea and cake included. Booking essential. £38

RHS – Body Language

Monday November 10, 9am to noon

Join the head gardener for a fascinating talk with a practical session on the defects suffered by trees and how to care for them. Booking essential on 08456 121 253. £10.95 (RHS members), £12.95 (non RHS members)

Opening times:

October 6 to November 2, Monday to Sunday, 10.30am to 5.30pm, November 4 to December 31, Tuesday to Sunday, 10.30am to 4pm, January 3 to March 2, Saturday and Sunday, 10.30am to 4pm

Admission: adults £6.60, children £3.30, family £16.50

Phone 01825 790231 or visit www.national trust.org.uk/sheffieldparkgarden for more information