Reviews of West Dean Gardens

I had visited West Dean once many years ago; earlier this year I decided to become a Friend as I live only 10 miles away. I now visit at least once a month and find it a wonderful place to wander and relax. As a keen photographer there is always something new to catch the eye with the changing seasons. Just hoping we have some snow this year! The upkeep must be tremendous but the gardens and parkland are always in top condition - a tribute to the gardeners.

(5.0/5)

To me, West Dean ranks as one of the finest gardens I have ever seen - the walled garden and greenhouses are inspirational, the parkland stunning, everything about it makes for a great day out and I insist that you visit it all year round especially when snow is on the ground. As a keen photographer, I know that fellow photgraphers will find endless inspiration and amazing shots here. There is always so much going on - visit soon!

(5.0/5)

The views of the Parkland are sublime and an intriguing juxtapostion to the gardens. The southwestern areas are more interesting [for my money].
Peto's pergola, although very splendid seemed a bit dislocated and without reference to anything apart from the sunken garden, currently being renovated.

Some of the plantings in front of the house are charming-Cleomes, Verbena bonariensis, Salvia involucrata, Salvia micro.cvs and copper leaved purple flowering Dahlias make an exciting assemblage.
There is an unusual propensity of Taxus and Buxus, in big groups, beautifully manicured into dome shapes, reminding me of Jardins de Marqueyssac.

The maintenance is of a high calibre, especially for such a large place.

(4.0/5)

When I visited West Dean it rained, this didn't spoil my enjoyment of my stroll. The summer houses offered nice views and shelter from the rain so I could sit and read.

the winding river offered a nice counterpoint to the planting.

Well restored kitchen gardens

(4.0/5)