Last updated on 11 September 11

Port Lympne Gardens

© Laurence Livermore
Photograph © The Howletts Wild Animal Trust
Photograph © The Howletts Wild Animal Trust

Gardenvisit Editorial

A great Edwardian house, designed by Sir Herbert Baker in the Cape Dutch style, overlook Romney Marsh and the English Channel. The garden was designed by the owner, Sir Philip Sassoon with help from Philip Tilden. The garden then fell into decay and its central fountain was destroyed. After 1973, the garden was rescued by a new owner, John Aspinall, with advice from Russell Page. There is a monumental stairway, a lily pool, a Magnolia walk, a Chess garden, a series of terraces, herbaceous borders and bedding.

Head Gardener's Comment

Port Lympne Gardens are set in 15 acres of beautiful landscaped terrain and include a vineyard, figary, chessboard and stripe garden. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the Trojan stairway across Romney Marsh and the English Channel.

Attention to detail within each of section of the gardens is exhibited by complimentary grouping of colour. The gardens are of interest throughout the year with Spring bedding and Summer bedding.

History

Port Lympne Mansion was built for Philip Sassoon between 1914-1920. A lavish and expensive project, professional leading craftsmen were employed - including architect Sir Herbert Baker famous for the design of New Delhi in India and Philip Tilden a well known designer.

The late John Aspinall bought Port Lympne in 1973 to house his collection of rare and endangered species. The mansion house is located in 600 acres of its wild animal park in Kent and consists of delightful mural painted romms by famous English artists such as Rex Whistler, Spencer Roberts and Martin Jordan.

Address - Lympne, nr Hythe, Kent, England, CT21 4PD
Opening times - The gardens belong to, and are within, Port Lympne Wild Animal Park. But from 2011 entry to the mansion and gardens was restricted to people who are attending private functions.
Website - Visit the Port Lympne Gardens website