The Garth
Gardens covering nine acres and designed by renowned architect Walter H Godfrey.
Newchapel Road, Lingfield, Surrey, RH7 6BJ
Facilities
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Accessible loos
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Bike storage facilities
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Cafe / restaurant
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Easily accessible without car
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Garden only
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Mostly wheelchair accessible
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Parkland / open spaces
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Pet friendly
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Picnic area
- Wheelchair ramps/routes
- Accessible toilets
The origins of The Garth, also known as The Garth Pleasure Grounds, go back to 1729 when the Lingfield parish drew up a contract, with a local carpenter Thomas Stanford, to build a new workhouse at a cost of £290. It provided basic schooling for boys making shoes, hats, bonnets and waistcoats.
The garden at the Garth covers 9 acres and was designed in 1919 by a distinguished historic Arts and Crafts buildings and landscape architect Walter H Godfrey (1881-1961). “The Garth Pleasure Grounds” as the garden was described, includes various features designed by Godfrey such as a terrace, gazebo, pergola, bird bath, well, the courtyard bench, small fountain and ornate iron gates.
The grounds were altered in the late 20th Century but a plan of the garden from 1922 shows that it retained many key features from Godfrey’s original design. The garden is subdivided into many separate ‘rooms’, often by hedges or walls, and with paths linking the individual areas. The garden represents an idyllic setting surrounding the former parish workhouse which was also refurbished by Godfrey.
Tea, coffee, and cakes will be available on the days we are open.
The owner will personally provide a tour to highlight the history of the workhouse and the features of the garden designed by W H Godfrey. The tour can be adapted to suit visitors’ requirements. Please contact us regarding requirements for tours and refreshments.
Important information: opening info is generated by artificial intelligence; check specific attraction details before travelling.
The indicator above will show ‘open’ when the public have any kind of access to any part of this property. That could be the park, a shop, or a special event, and may not reflect regular admission times to the main attraction. Always consult the website of the house or garden you intend to visit before travelling to check that the attraction you are interested in is open.
The Garth Pleasure Grounds, located in Lingfield, Surrey, is a Grade II* listed house with a rich history dating back to the 18th century. The grounds offer a variety of attractions and events for visitors of all ages.
General Information
The Garth features beautifully designed gardens inspired by Mediterranean and Asian regions, including French, Italian, Greek, and Oriental styles. Visitors can explore captivating story trails, wildlife, and the historic Tea Room Gallery, which showcases letters, artefacts, and photographs related to the estate's history. The grounds also include the Tortuga Tavern, Santa's Elf Workshop, and other attractions for children.
Visiting Options
- Open Days: The Garth hosts open days throughout the year, often in support of various charities. These events include seasonal highlights such as bluebell and wild garlic blooms in May and themed events like the Pumpkin Quest in October.
- Private Visits: Group visits (minimum 10 people) can be arranged by contacting the management. The Garth also accommodates private events such as birthdays, educational visits, corporate outings, and more.
Upcoming Events
- NGS Open Days: 3 and 10 May 2026, from 1 PM to 5 PM. Tickets are £10 per person, with children under 5 by donation. Tea, cakes, and live Tudor music will be available on some days.
- Historic Houses Open Days: 4 to 9 May and 11 to 17 May 2026, from 1 PM to 5 PM. Tickets are free for Historic Houses members, £10 per person for others, and children under 5 by donation. Tea, cakes, and live Tudor music will be available on some days.
- Pumpkin Quest Open Days: 31 October 2026 and 1 November 2026 (NGS Pumpkin Quest), from 1 PM to 4 PM. Tickets are £10 per person, with children under 5 by donation.
Important Notes
- There is no on-site parking for open days. Visitors should refer to the contact section for parking details.
- Visitors are responsible for their own safety and should exercise caution due to uneven ground.
- Touching ornaments, decorations, or lighting is not permitted.
For more information or to arrange a private visit, please contact the management directly.
Free entry for Historic Houses members except on the days we open for the National Gardens Scheme. Entry for non-members is £10 for adults, children under 5 free.
Groups up to 40 visitors are welcome by arrangement. Please get in touch by email ([email protected]). Limited parking available on site. Public car park is in Gunpit Road which is 10 min walk away
- Wheelchair ramps/routes
- Accessible toilets
Getting here
Newchapel Road, Lingfield, Surrey, RH7 6BJ
We are on the west side of Lingfield village on the north side of Newchapel Road, nearly opposite the Barge Tiles shop.
The main visitor entrance is at ///rungs.clown.salad What does this mean?
By Car
From A22 take B2028 by Mormon Temple to Lingfield. The Garth is on the left opposite Barge Tiles.
By Public Transport
Trains go from London Victoria or Clapham Junction to Lingfield station. We are 20 min walk from the station.
We spent time researching the house and grounds and are refurbishing the gardens following the plans we located in the Lewis archives. Our project is still in progress.
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