Reviews of Sussex Prairie Garden

I ‘stumbled’ across Sussex Prairies, almost one year ago now, having been introduced to the owners (Paul and Pauline) in a social context. Having now had the pleasure of visiting SP in all seasons, and accepting that I am not even an amateur gardener, I have been stunned by not only the original concept but also by the different seasonal presentations of the whole prairies – from the wonderful winter starkness of now, to the summer colour bursts of flowers and plants and seemingly never ending grasses etc. The garden sculptures lurk, waiting for the unsuspecting visitor, with the various livestock (pigs, sheep, chickens) providing an animated side show, and produce,
When SP is open, garden wanderings can be ‘rewarded’ by homemade cakes and other scrumptious delights, with tea and coffee, on the tea room terrace which overlooks the gardens. Goodness knows what hard work goes on behind the scenes during non-visiting times, but it must be considerable.
I am (almost) inspired to plant a few things myself……….Go visit!

(5.0/5)

We made a second visit to Sussex Prairies to see the garden in the autumn. The subtle autumn colours were truly beautiful. Despite the garden being officially closed, Pauline made us very welcome! (The previous review describing her as "frosty," is quite frankly, unbelievable! No surpise that the reviewer is anonymous, I suppose.)
The Aspen yellow display of Amsonia hubrichtii was one of the highlights of our visit. Another spectacular and unusual plant was the 8 foot tall Aster tataricus, one of the latest flowering Asters I've seen.
On a non horticultural note, we were treated to free cuddles with some extremley friendly lambs!!

(5.0/5)

i was not impressed in the slightest - don't bother wasting your time on a vist - Pauline in particular frosty and unhelpful. 0 out of 5

(1.0/5)

The compelling features about this 'Prairie' garden are the lovely wide walks swirling around like a whirl pool and then the big bangs of colour which are extra-ordinary. A vast drift of Rudbeckia Goldstrum was yelling its face off with sun and joy..amazing. Lots of lovely plant groupings of well partnered flowers.

The blocks of grasses act as a foil for the exuberance of colour.

Although the Praire style is not my bag one cannot but adore the big drifts of bright flowers. Wonderful!

(4.0/5)

nice garden, but nothing new. as a landscaper it does not really fit in to its surrounding, its just a large field full of mass planting. there no plant sale area,

(2.0/5)

Sussex Prairie Garden is the most visually stunning garden I've ever seen! I'll be back to visit several times a year.

(5.0/5)

My partner and I visited Sussex Prairies today and were blown away by the place! Huge drifts of herbaceous perennials and grasses set amidst 200 year old oaks.
this garden is an undiscovered gem, we've been to the Oudolf garden at Pensthorpe, which we loved, but Sussex Prairies is about ten times the size and full of unusual plants. I loved the Amsonia and was pleasantly surprised at how lush and colourful the garden appreared despite the current drought.

(5.0/5)

I visited the garden in early January, but even with the colours bleached out by winter, the shapes and textures under a glint of frost were at once restful and inviting. It's a diffrent kind of garden based on grasses and unusual plants with meandering paths and quiet pools. I'd love to return when the garden is in full bloom - to wander, take a seat and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

The guest house is notably comfortable and the hosts caring and friendly. A place to return to.

(5.0/5)

This is a truly astounding garden, planted in the naturalistic style ... don't miss it.
Owners Paul and Pauline McBride spent 12 years in Luxemburg before returning home to their farm in Sussex. They worked with Piet Oudolf while abroad and this wonderful garden is clearly a result of both their extensive knowledge gained overseas, but also a natural ability to create a stunning landscape back home.
Delightful too are the sculptures dotted across the prairie and the home-baked cakes that Pauline produces in the cafe, which overlooks the garden.
Rare breeds of sheep will entertain the children, as will the statues.

(5.0/5)

A treat of a garden for those who like the naturalistic style. Sweeping curved paths invite you in and blocks of bold planting enfold you. The atmosphere of this garden in autumn when I visited is peaceful and that of gracefully fading blooms rich with wildlife even then. As a designer I appreciate the imaginative use of plants and space in this garden - very inspiring and also low maintenance. I long to design large gardens in this style - its great for wildlife and people alike.

(5.0/5)