White Rails Cottage

About White Rails Cottage

A warm welcome awaits you at White Rails Cottage. Philip and Veryan are looking forward to telling you about the garden, the recent changes and the garden plans that are evolving for the future. Much is proposed to bring more wildlife into the garden and to encourage wild flowers in designated parts of it. Already they are experimenting with a wild flower patch and a field where sheep graze later in the season.

There is a deep pond in the field which provides a habitat to a diverse range of creatures. Dragon flies flit around the garden enjoying the sheltered space and water. The established shrubs and trees provide shelter for birds, squirrels and other creatures. Many of the shrubs are evergreen, some flower and have berries, providing nectar early on for pollinators and then berries for hungry birds in the autumn.

The area nearest the house is a more formal area of grass. It is surrounded by shrubs, mostly evergreen including some different hollies. This was all planted years ago and the careful choice of shrubs means that now, there is interest throughout the year as the colours change with the seasons. The winter garden is not dull at White Rails Cottage!

The stream, along with the ponds, was created by Philip some years ago and now looks so natural as it babbles along. The newts love it and it provides a source of water for all.
As you wander around the garden, from one shady area to another, you discover the atmosphere changes within the space. This is a traditional country garden, tidy but not manicured, on the edge of Ditchling surrounded by fields and views. There are seats and benches on which to rest, relax, see the views and to just listen. A time to increase your wellbeing.

Philip Dunn, a renowned Sussex artist, has been painting for over 60 years (http://windowgallery.co.uk). He is famous for his colourful pictures of deckchairs and Brighton seafront. His paintings convey the buzz, yet beauty, of the seafront, whilst the garden is a contrast to all of this: tranquil, with shades of green and the sounds of nature.

This garden has been the work of Philip for many years and he now has the support and ideas brought by Veryan as they work together to enhance and restore this rural space.

Note. Whilst the garden is not suitable for wheelchairs, those with reduced mobility maybe able to enjoy the garden. Email Veryan to discuss and possibly book a parking space at the cottage.
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