Nymans Gardens and House

Last Updated on February 20, 2024 by Suzy McCullough

Things to do at Nymans Gardens and House review

Nymans is a grade II listed National Trust garden set around a romantic house and ruins near Haywards Heath in West Sussex. The gardens were developed at the start of the 19th century and they are a garden for all seasons.

The gardens are natural fun for kids with a bamboo jungle and topiary shapes. You can give den building a try in the woods or pick up a spotter activity to hunt for seasonal, flowers, plants and bugs. During the school holidays, they usually have a family-friendly trail so make sure you enquire when you arrive. There may be a small charge and many of their trails involve finding clues to complete the challenge.

The woods are a great place for families to explore with boardwalks, water cascades, flowers, mud and very tall trees. There are three circular walks that show you the best bits (maps available at the welcome hub). See if you can find the large wooden shaped sculptures that include toads, a giant beetle, a kingfisher and owls.

The walled gardens are famous for their lavish displays of flowers. You will also find carpets of bluebells in late spring in the woodland. The house is part ruin and part house, There have been generations of Messels living here since the 1890s. Sadly most of the house was destroyed by fire in 1947 and it became impossible for the family to rebuild the ruin. What survived of the house was made safe for the family to use as a base when visiting their gardens. Surviving rooms include the Garden Hall, Dining room, book room and library.

FAQ and Further Information Nymans Gardens and House