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| View from the Temple |
We've really enjoyed getting out to many National trust sites over this strange Covid summer. We've found all the sites to be excellent at taking pre-booked customers and ensuring there is plenty of room for distancing, as well as being stunning to look round of course.
Miss E decided to join my husband and me on our trip to Nymans in July, and it is a perfect place for wandering and chatting to your family as you walk the stunning grounds. The National Trust describe Nymans as "a garden lovers' home for all seasons, with an extensive yet intimate garden set around a romantic house and ruins."
There is a one-way system around the site at the moment and we found it easy to follow as a map is available. They have also mapped out a more accessible and level route for those who need it. At the moment the cafe and bookshop are closed but the shop was open and beautifully stocked.
It is worth noting that the only toilets available at the moment are the ones in the car park as Nymans are having some extensive work done to create a large suite of modern and accessible toilets for future use.
I think pictures speak a thousand words, so have a look at Nymans in the sun.
The view out to the wider country estate with woodland, lakes and bird hides, perfect for exploring and seeing what wildlife and birds you can spot. The woodland walks are again open and there are circular waymarked routes of between 0.75 miles and 2.5 miles. Here is a map of the gardens and woodland.
This is Lime Avenue. There are some beautiful shady paths leading up to the ruins of the Messel house and currently the 'Morning Star' horsebox kiosk that is serving hot and cold drinks and some snacks. We had a very enjoyable cream scone on the main lawn.
The stunning Cedar of Lebanon tree in front of the south fascia ruins of the house.
View to the house and ruins.
The rock and heath gardens.
I love the formal gardens, so the wall garden was my favourite area and I was able to capture loads of gorgeous flowers in there.
In the potting shed, you have artists working and you can go in and see them at work, which is a really nice touch. I recall from one of the times we had visited before that there was a painting class happening, which was being led by John Thompson, whose work is displayed below.
Useful Information
Address: Handcross, near Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH17 6EB
Email: nymans@nationaltrust.org.uk
Telephone Number: 01444 405250
Parking: Plentiful and free (although you have to book to park right now)
Opening Hours: The gardens are generally open 10-5pm in the summer season and the shop is 11am-4pm. Do check before you travel as there can be slight changes, especially at the moment.
Prices: Prices are slightly reduced currently, at £10 an adult/ £5 for a child (5-17 years)/ £25 for a 2 adult family/ £15 adult family and of course NT members go in as part of their membership.
Are Dogs allowed: Not in the formal gardens (unless they are assistance dogs), but they can be walked in the woods when the car park access is open.
Food & Drink: The outside kiosk has reopened and you can get drinks and light snacks to take away and enjoy in the grounds. Or You can bring a picnic, but BBQs are not allowed.
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