This is a very belated post to record our visit to Dale Park House near Arundel on 28th June to see the very beautiful gardens there.

The house and gardens are set in parkland within the South Downs National Park, enjoying magnificent views to the sea.

After an interesting talk by the owner, Mrs Jane Green, we set off on a walk around the grounds. There is a large walled garden, which features an impressive 200ft herbaceous border. There is also a sunken gravel garden, mixed borders, a small rose garden, dreamy rose and clematis arches, an interesting collection of hostas, foliage plants and shrubs, an orchard and a kitchen garden. The gardener was on hand to answer our questions.

It was a beautiful, but hot, day so, at the end of our walk, we were very pleased to relax outside the house for tea and delicious homemade cake – what more could a WI lady want!

The gardens are open on set days in the year via the National Garden Scheme (NGS), or groups are also welcome by arrangement May to August (01243 814260).

Many thanks to Jan who organised our visit.

To see all the photos, which are in our photo album click here.

words – Kate Claisse

photos – Clare Beck