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.
Opening Times
The Garth opens to visitors throughout the year via special open days and private visits. There are no fixed regular opening hours, but the garden is accessible during the events listed below.
Spring Open Days
The Bluebell Nuttery and Spinney are open during two periods in May, when bluebells and wild garlic are at their peak:
- 4–9 May 2026 and 11–17 May 2026 (Historic Houses Open Days): 1pm–5pm
- 3 and 10 May 2026 (NGS Open Days): 1pm–5pm
Autumn Open Days
The garden hosts special Pumpkin Quest events in late October and early November:
- 31 October 2026: 1pm–4pm
- 1 November 2026 (NGS Pumpkin Quest): 1pm–4pm
Seasonal Visits
Private visits can be arranged throughout the year. The garden also offers seasonal attractions including a Santa's Elf workshop during the winter months.
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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