46 Westup Farm Cottages

About 46 Westup Farm Cottages

Westup Farm and cottages are part of the Balcombe estate, and are situated on the High Weald; at 110m above sea level, the highest ground between North and South Downs. The farmhouse dates from the 18th century and is a Grade II listed building. The cottages were built in about 1890 (Garden Which? describe them as ‘Arts and Crafts’).

I moved here in 1981, and at that time the cottage was essentially derelict. There was no garden; the field extended to the cottage walls as previously hedging had been removed ‘so the cows could keep the grass down’. In its favour though was its position, and with a ready supply of farmyard manure, it had potential. Early attempts at gardening were influenced by the meadow setting, I planted apple trees in the front garden; but attempts to grow vegetables were hampered by the local wildlife, which inspired the school of ‘gardening despite nature’, a practice which is continued today.

However, the garden has evolved; boundaries have been extended, copious quantities of ‘soil improver’ have been barrowed in and the field has been cultivated. Designed to provide year round interest, the garden has been open for the National Garden Scheme since 1995. It contains many unique and traditional features, linked by intimate paths through lush and subtle planting and has been featured in numerous publications. Limited wheelchair access

Refreshment information
Home-made teas at Stumlet (17 May & 17 June), at 46 Westup Farm Cottages (18 June). Refreshments in aid of St Catherine’s Hospice (Stumlet), Orchard House Residential Children’s Services (Westup).

By arrangement visits
Price £5 per person, discounts for groups of 4+. Refreshments may be possible.
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Rural charm in an AONB with a feast of plants.