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The Gardens offer splendid
views across the surrounding countryside and provide a range of diverse and
exciting features. Fine collections of temperate trees and shrubs were
established by Gerald Loder (1st Lord Wakehurst) between 1903 and 1936 and added
to by Sir Henry Price up to 1963. Since then Kew has developed the collections
further and they are now arranged into geographic areas with the concept of a
walk through the temperate woodlands of the world. This arrangement gives an
impression of the natural forest communities, such as those of New England with
their spectacular displays of 'fall' colour and of the dense forests of the
southern beeches of South America.
Complementary features
include a Himalayan Glade, extensive water gardens and cottage-style plantings
in the walled gardens. Substantial losses in the storm of 1987 have allowed new
and creative plantings to be commenced.
The estate is rich in
native wildlife with a diverse range of mammals, birds, insects and wildflowers.
A large part of Wakehurst Place is designated as a Site of Special Scientific
Interest by English Nature. The Loder Valley Nature Reserve, on the southern
flank of the estate, gives visitors the opportunity to observe wildlife at close
quarters and provides a refuge for the flora and fauna of the Sussex Weald.
The Gardens are open to
visitors every day from 10.00 am except Christmas Day and New Year's Day. The
closing time varies from 4.00 pm in winter to 7.00 pm in summer. Last admission
is 30 minutes before the Gardens close. Entry to the Loder Valley Nature Reserve
is by permit only. Telephone 01444 894067 for further information. |
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