West Dean Gardens
A beautifully rejuvenated historic garden rich in creative and social heritage.
Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0QZ
Facilities
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Accessible loos
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Accessible parking
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Cafe / restaurant
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Easily accessible without car
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Free parking
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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
- Guide dogs welcome
- Accessible toilets
- Accessible parking
- Access statement available
Visit West Dean Gardens (part of West Dean College of Arts and Conservation) in West Sussex and escape to a beautifully rejuvenated historic garden rich in creative and social heritage. Explore the extensive grounds on a gentle walk or venture further to the unique arboretum.
Features include the 13 restored Victorian Glasshouses housing orchids, fuchsias, figs, vines, melons and chillies. See the Walled Kitchen Garden of classic Victorian design, 100m-long Edwardian Pergola designed by Harold Peto, the naturalistic Spring Garden, the award-winning Sunken Garden and the orchards. The circular 2½ mile arboretum walk set in 50 acres of beautiful parkland offers stunning views of the South Downs and a route passing Edward James’ grave.
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.
West Dean Gardens Opening Times and Events
West Dean Gardens, located in West Sussex, offers a variety of attractions and events throughout the year. Below is a detailed summary of their opening times, events, and facilities:
General Opening Times
- January - February and November - December: Monday to Friday: 9:30am - 4:00pm; Saturday, Sunday, and Bank Holidays: 9:00am - 4:00pm.
- March - October: Monday to Friday: 9:30am - 5:00pm; Saturday, Sunday, and Bank Holidays: 9:00am - 5:00pm.
- Special Closures: Closed on 24th, 25th, and 31st December 2025.
Admission Prices
- January - February and November - December: £7.50 (£8.25 with Gift Aid).
- March - October: £13.50 (£14.85 with Gift Aid).
- Children under 16: Free (additional charges may apply on event days).
Events
- Christmas Grotto: 13th-14th and 20th-21st December 2025, 10:00am - 4:30pm. Tickets: £8 per child, £7.50 per adult.
- Christmas Afternoon Tea: 1st, 12th, and 14th December 2025, 1:00pm - 3:00pm. Tickets: £32 per person.
- Garden Tour & Cream Tea: Various dates from March to October 2026, 1:00pm - 3:45pm. Tickets: £32 per person.
- Stargazing Events: Various dates from December 2025 to March 2026, 6:15pm - 9:00pm. Tickets: £25 per person.
Facilities
- Restaurant and Gift Shop: Open during garden hours. Breakfast served on weekends and Bank Holidays from 9:00am. Christmas lunches available Monday to Friday, 12:00pm - 2:00pm, from 1st to 23rd December 2025 (£30 per person).
- Accessibility: Most areas are wheelchair accessible. Free entry for essential companions.
- Dogs: Allowed on short leads. Please clean up after your pet.
For group bookings, memberships, and additional details, please refer to the specific sections above.
Historic Houses members visit for free.
Ticket prices vary depending on the season. For more information, please see our website.
We welcome group bookings of 15+ people.
Please contact Celia Dickinson for more information.
01243 818 210
- Guide dogs welcome
- Accessible toilets
- Accessible parking
- Access statement available
Getting here
Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0QZ
West Dean Gardens is nestled at the foot of the South Downs just 6 miles north of Chichester towards Midhurst. The entrance to the
Gardens is clearly signposted off the A286.
For those travelling by public transport, Chichester is the nearest rail station.
Why our members love visiting West Dean Gardens
Become a Historic Houses member
Explore the nation’s heritage from just £68 per year.
Hundreds of the most beautiful historic houses, castles, and gardens across Britain offer our members free entry.
Also: receive a quarterly magazine, enjoy monthly online lectures, get exclusive invitations to buy tickets for behind-the-scenes tours, and take up a range of special offers on holidays, books, and other products you might like.
