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Highdown Gardens Worthing

4.7
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

A stunning chalkland garden with rare plants and sea views, born from a unique horticultural experiment by Sir Frederick and Lady Sybil Stern.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooms and tadpoles abound

CrowdLow
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glasshouse

Highdown Gardens Worthing

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooms and tadpoles abound

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning chalkland garden with rare plants and sea views, born from a unique horticultural experiment by Sir Frederick and Lady Sybil Stern.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"A beautiful, free-to-enter oasis with unique plant collections and lovely sea views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Height Limit

Be aware of the 2.1m height restriction for the main car park. Overflow parking is available.

🚶‍♀️ Explore for 1-2 Hours

Allow ample time to wander and appreciate the gardens; it's a perfect spot for a short, refreshing walk.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rare Plant Collections

Rare Plant Collections

Throughout the gardens

Marvel at the diverse and unusual plant species, a testament to the Sterns' passion for horticulture on chalky soil.

Sea Views

Sea Views

Upper sections of the gardens

Enjoy picturesque vistas of the English Channel, offering a serene backdrop to your garden exploration.

The Moth Tree

The Moth Tree

Specific location within gardens

Seek out this unique and memorable specimen, a talking point for plant enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

Historic Sterns' Garden

Historic Sterns' Garden

Central garden areas

Wander through the thoughtfully laid-out grounds, reflecting the original vision of its dedicated creators.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Paid Parking

Enjoy the stunning Highdown Gardens for free! Parking is available but has a height restriction (2.1m) and may require overflow parking on busy days. Plan for a 1-2 hour visit, perfect for a refreshing stroll.

A Garden's Unique History

Discover the fascinating story of Sir Frederick and Lady Sybil Stern, who transformed chalky soil into a vibrant garden. This 'experiment' is now a public treasure, offering unique plant collections and beautiful sea views.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Blooms and tadpoles abound
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon in June
Why
Sunny, skylarks, and seating
Crowd
Medium
When
Anytime, off-peak
Why
Quiet strolls, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Worthing help!

🚗 Parking Height Limit

Be aware of the 2.1m height restriction for the main car park. Overflow parking is available. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore for 1-2 Hours

Allow ample time to wander and appreciate the gardens; it's a perfect spot for a short, refreshing walk. Reddit

reddit.com

I'm a Brazilian student and I am going to Worthing in August

🚫 No Dogs Allowed

Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted in the gardens, though Highdown Hill nearby is dog-friendly. Reddit

📍 No Right Turn In

If heading east to west, you'll need to use the roundabout to access the gardens. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Height Limit

Be aware of the 2.1m height restriction for the main car park. Overflow parking is available. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore for 1-2 Hours

Allow ample time to wander and appreciate the gardens; it's a perfect spot for a short, refreshing walk. Reddit

🚫 No Dogs Allowed

Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted in the gardens, though Highdown Hill nearby is dog-friendly. Reddit

📍 No Right Turn In

If heading east to west, you'll need to use the roundabout to access the gardens. Reddit

☕ Nearby Amenities

A nursery with coffee and Highdown Hill for walks are accessible from the car park. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Highdown Gardens Worthing is widely praised as a beautiful, free-to-enter oasis with unique plant collections and lovely sea views. Visitors appreciate the historical significance and the peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for a relaxing stroll. However, some note the car park's height restriction, the absence of dogs, and less-than-ideal toilet facilities.

"Beautiful gardens. Free parking (must be under 2.1m as there's a barrier. We went on a busy bank holiday and whilst we had to park in the overflow car park there was plenty of room still. Lovely walk around the gardens, took us around 1-2 hours with adult children including stopping for a short sit down. There's a pond there, quite shallow but watch young children. It has an enormous fish in it which even my adult kids loved spotting and in May loads of tadpoles which younger kids would enjoy spotting. There are plenty of shaded as well as open spots to walk around and what seems to be a small visitor centre at the start (it wasn't open when we went so can't comment on it). Not somewhere to spend the day but certainly somewhere to stop for a short walk if you have time. The toilets are not pleasant and it could have done with a map of the place at the start so you didn't miss any of it and I understand why they don't want dogs but it's also frustrating when there is a wide open hill next door to walk your dog but you can't then take them into the gardens. All in all however definitely worth stopping off.
There's also no right turn into there so you have to do to the roundabout and back to turn into it if heading from east to west."

Susie D

"This is one of my favourite local places to visit when I feel like just having a short walk by myself in these beautiful gardens. They have an interesting history, having originated as a much-loved "experiment" by plant collectors Sir Frederick and Lady Sybil Stern before being bequeathed for public use.

It's completely free, there's plenty of nearby parking and, whatever time of year, the gardens are always interesting, with something in bloom. Today it is early summer blooms, with scented roses and sweet peas. There are some interesting and unusual specimens - I remember being amazed when a friend showed me the Moth Tree on my first visit.

It's thoughtfully set out, with plenty of seating and more secluded areas - perfect for when you just want some time by yourself."

Debbie McAvilley

"A beautiful place. Recommended to me by a dendrologist I know. This place was set up by a gentleman and his wife who created a garden on chalk!!! Not very large, but there is a nursery nearby for coffee and Highdown Hill which can be walked from Highdown Gardens car park. Has a very gradual incline so is quite easy. Very popular with dog walkers. We sat at the top on a beautiful, hot, sunny late afternoon in June and saw skylarks 😊 hovering above"

Nyla Sandland

What People Like

Beautiful gardens
Free entry
Unique plants

What People Dislike

Parking height limit
No dogs allowed
Toilet condition

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Highdown Gardens are located in Worthing. If driving, be mindful of the 2.1m height restriction for the main car park. For those heading east to west, you'll need to use the roundabout to turn into the gardens. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available. However, it has a height restriction of 2.1m. On busy days, you might need to use the overflow car park, which usually has plenty of space. Reddit

Information on public transport routes to Highdown Gardens Worthing is not readily available from user reviews, but it's advisable to check local bus schedules for services that stop near the Littlehampton Road area. Reddit

Reviews suggest the gardens are accessible with plenty of seating and more secluded areas, making it suitable for a relaxed visit. Reddit

If you are heading from east to west, you will need to go to the roundabout and then come back to turn into the Highdown Gardens entrance. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Highdown Gardens Worthing offers free entry to all visitors, making it an accessible and enjoyable destination. Reddit

Opening hours for Highdown Gardens are not explicitly mentioned in the provided reviews, but it's generally understood to be open during daylight hours for visitors to enjoy the grounds. Reddit

Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted within Highdown Gardens. However, Highdown Hill, which is adjacent to the gardens, is a popular spot for dog walkers. Reddit

One reviewer mentioned that a map of the place would have been helpful to ensure no areas were missed, suggesting they may not be readily available at the entrance. Reddit

There appears to be a small visitor centre at the start of the gardens, but its opening status and offerings were not available when one visitor went. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The gardens offer numerous picturesque spots, from the diverse plant collections and unique specimens like the Moth Tree to the serene sea views from the upper sections. Reddit

Absolutely! With its rare plants, seasonal blooms, and even tadpoles in the pond during spring, it's a fantastic location for nature photography. Reddit

There are no specific mentions of drone usage in the reviews. It's always best to check local regulations or inquire with the garden management before flying drones. Reddit

Golden hour, particularly late afternoons in summer, can provide beautiful lighting for capturing the gardens' beauty, as mentioned by visitors enjoying the sunny late afternoons. Reddit

No specific restrictions on photography for personal use are mentioned in the reviews, allowing visitors to capture the beauty of the gardens freely. Reddit

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

A leisurely walk around Highdown Gardens, including stops, typically takes about 1-2 hours for adults. Reddit

You can explore rare and colorful plant collections, enjoy sea views, spot fish and tadpoles in the pond, and discover unique specimens like the Moth Tree. Reddit

Yes, the gardens are thoughtfully set out with plenty of seating, including more secluded areas perfect for quiet contemplation or a relaxing break. Reddit

While dogs are not allowed, children might enjoy spotting the large fish in the pond and the tadpoles in spring. Adult supervision is advised near the pond. Reddit

The gardens originated as an experimental project by Sir Frederick and Lady Sybil Stern, who cultivated a beautiful garden on chalky soil before bequeathing it for public use. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there isn't a cafe directly within the gardens, a nursery nearby offers coffee, and visitors can enjoy a quiet picnic with plenty of benches available. Reddit

Yes, Highdown Gardens is a great spot for a quiet picnic, with numerous benches provided throughout the grounds. Reddit

The Highdown pub is mentioned as being near the gardens, offering a dining option. Other restaurants can be found in the wider Worthing area. Reddit

A nearby nursery offers coffee, and the Highdown pub provides a dining experience. Reddit

One reviewer expressed hope to visit again when plants are for sale, suggesting a nursery or plant sales might be available at certain times. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Highdown Gardens Worthing offers a pleasant outing for families, though it's best suited for a shorter visit. While dogs are not allowed in the gardens, the adjacent Highdown Hill is a great spot for dog walkers. Reddit Children might be fascinated by the large fish in the pond and the tadpoles that appear in spring, offering a small element of discovery. Reddit Remember to supervise young children closely around the pond. The free entry and ample seating make it a relaxed environment for a family stroll. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on one of the many benches. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers

For those seeking a tranquil escape, Highdown Gardens Worthing is an ideal destination. Its thoughtfully laid-out design includes secluded areas perfect for quiet contemplation and personal reflection. Reddit The gardens provide a serene environment to unwind, enjoy nature's beauty, and escape the hustle and bustle. Many visitors find it a favorite local spot for a peaceful walk, appreciating the unique plant collections and the calming atmosphere. Reddit

🌿 Garden Enthusiasts & Plant Lovers

Highdown Gardens Worthing is a must-visit for anyone passionate about horticulture. The gardens are renowned for their rare and colorful plant collections, expertly cultivated on chalk soil by Sir Frederick and Lady Sybil Stern. Reddit Discover unique specimens like the intriguing Moth Tree and enjoy the seasonal blooms that offer year-round interest. The history of the gardens as a dedicated horticultural experiment adds another layer of fascination for enthusiasts. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Sterns' Horticultural Legacy

Highdown Gardens Worthing is a living testament to the dedication and horticultural vision of Sir Frederick and Lady Sybil Stern. They transformed a challenging chalky landscape into a vibrant and diverse garden, showcasing their passion for rare and unusual plants. This 'experiment' began in the early 20th century and has since become a cherished public space, offering a unique glimpse into their botanical endeavors. The gardens are a prime example of how challenging environments can be overcome with expertise and a love for nature. Reddit

Visitors can explore the results of their meticulous work, with collections that thrive on the chalk soil. The layout itself reflects their thoughtful design, with winding paths, secluded seating areas, and stunning vistas. The Sterns' legacy is not just in the plants they cultivated, but in the enduring beauty and tranquility they created for future generations to enjoy. It’s a place that invites quiet contemplation and appreciation for the natural world. Reddit

Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities

Planning your visit to Highdown Gardens Worthing is straightforward, with free entry being a major draw. However, there are a few practical points to keep in mind. The main car park has a height restriction of 2.1 meters, so larger vehicles may need to use the overflow parking. Reddit It's also worth noting that there's no direct right turn into the gardens if you're traveling from east to west; you'll need to use the roundabout to access the entrance. Reddit

While the gardens are a wonderful place for a short walk, some visitors suggest that a map would be beneficial to ensure you don't miss any of the garden's features. Reddit The toilets are also noted as not being particularly pleasant, so this is something to be aware of. Despite these minor points, the overall experience is highly positive, with many visitors finding it a beautiful and relaxing place to spend an hour or two. Reddit

Beyond the Gardens: Local Exploration

Highdown Gardens Worthing is part of a larger area offering more to explore. Adjacent to the gardens is Highdown Hill, which provides a gentle incline for an easy walk and offers rewarding views from its summit. This area is particularly popular with dog walkers, providing an alternative for those who wish to bring their canine companions. Reddit

For refreshments, a nursery located nearby offers coffee, and the Highdown pub is also mentioned as a local amenity. Reddit This makes it possible to combine a visit to the gardens with a coffee break or a meal, extending your outing. The proximity of these amenities enhances the overall visitor experience, allowing for a more complete day out in the Worthing area. Reddit

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