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Duckyls

A recently renovated 15 acre garden with wonderful views across Sussex. Consisting of a rhododendron woodland, a newly planted orchard, ponds and a more formal secret garden. Mostly laid out in the 1920s and 30s by a dedicated plant collector and orchid breeder. Delight in the blazes of spring colour to be seen.

Owner Info

  • Gia & Richard Thompson
Duckyls
Duckyls
Duckyls
Duckyls
Duckyls
Duckyls
Duckyls
Duckyls
Duckyls
Duckyls

About Duckyls

Mostly laid out in the 1920s and 30s by a dedicated plant collector and orchid breeder, the gardens at Duckyls combine an array of mature Asian specimens (rhododendron, azalea, cherry, magnolia, and camellia) with both indigenous and imported trees and shrubs. The estate was once around 200 acres, but was gradually sold off between the wars, and the visit will be confined to the 15 acres at its old core.

The house is surrounded by semi-formal beds and terracing which overlook from a high position the far-reaching (and largely uninterrupted) views towards Forest Row and the edge of Ashdown Forest. At this level, there is also a ½ acre parterre hidden away to one side with herbaceous borders and a dovecote.

The main garden then runs downhill along meandering paths and through a relatively young orchard to two wildlife ponds at the lowest point. The planting in these areas is more naturalistic but still very much planned.

There is an avenue of limes along part of the approach driveway to the house and a wooded dell.

Soft-fruit and vegetable raised beds/cages, oak barns and greenhouses are dotted around.

This garden includes steep slopes and many climbs. Suitable footwear is required.

Duckyls features

Location details

Duckyls,
East Grinstead,
West Sussex,
RH19 4LP

Directions to Duckyls
At Turners Hill take B2028 S, 1m fork L to West Hoathly, turn L signed Gravetye Manor. Entry on Vowels Ln, 1st driveway on R, just after bend. Duckyls is larger house at end of drive. Limited parking.

Duckyls openings

For this open day you need to pre-book your ticket in advance. To book tickets please click on the book button below.

Refreshments Tea, coffee & cake. Two hour timed slots at 12pm & 2pm.
Admission Adult: £8.00
Child: Free
Opening times 12:00-16:00

For this open day you need to pre-book your ticket in advance. To book tickets please click on the book button below.

Refreshments Tea, coffee & cake. Two hour timed slots at 12pm & 2pm.
Admission Adult: £8.00
Child: Free
Opening times 12:00-16:00

Accessibility

  • No information available at this time, please get in touch with the owners for details.
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FAQs

Yes, cashless payment is accepted.

Sorry, there is no available parking for coaches at Duckyls at this time.

Sorry, no dogs are allowed in the garden at this time.

There are no plants for sale for the time being.

Sorry, Duckyls does not yet accommodate wheelchair users.

Duckyls is not explicitly a wildlife garden, but you may still find various indigenous flora and fauna.