The Secret Garden

The Secret Garden is an enchanting mature woodland garden originally created by the acclaimed garden designer Ian Mylles with his partner Geoffrey Woolley as part of a wider landscaping scheme when they owned neighbouring Bines Farm. It has been managed ecologically for over six decades, without the use of chemicals providing a symbiotic habitat and haven for a rich variety of birds, butterflies and wildlife and a wonderful setting for relaxation and retreat.



It comprises about an acre of gently sloping west-facing land which has been designed to incorporate the natural contours of the land and take advantage of the varying vegetation, vistas and views. Pathways lead through and around the garden giving access to different seating areas and vantage points where you can take in the splendour of the woodland garden that offers constant interest throughout the seasons with a rainbow of floral and fragrant blossoms and outstanding views which are afforded in different areas.



There is a well with natural spring water and two spring fed ponds. In one area there is a small timber cabin/summerhouse which provides refuge during the winter months and there is a useful Keter storage shed.



There is an abundance of well-established evergreen and deciduous trees, both specimen and native including oak, cherry blossom, silver birch, hazel, chestnut, hornbeam, maple, a tall magnolia and a majestic Monterey pine. There is an established silver birch walk lined with rhododendrons and the woodland floor offers a beautiful display of bluebells and wildflowers in the spring and summer months. Shrubs include rhododendron, azalea, camelia, peiris and skimmia. There are two species of bamboo, gunnera, ferns and an array of wild flowers and herbs with some lovely scented plants.



The current owners purchased the property in 1990 and have worked in partnership with nature to allow The Secret Garden to develop harmoniously. The Vendors have cherished this garden for 32 years and are now looking for the next custodians to enjoy this wonderful acre of England.



Location

The Secret Garden is located in an elevated yet tucked away and private position in the High Weald Area of Outstanding National Beauty surrounded by meadows and farmland with magnificent views over the Rother Valley. The entrance to the property is off an ancient bridleway on the corner of Bines Lane leading to the Witherenden Road.



The popular and pretty village of Burwash is about 3 miles away and benefits from a range of excellent local amenities including a general store with post office, public houses and medical centre. The charming old Wealden villages of Wadhurst, Mayfield and Ticehurst are all within 5 miles and offer further shops and amenities.



More extensive shopping and leisure amenities can be found in Heathfield (6 miles) and the historic town of Battle (12.5 miles).



The property is 1.4 miles from Stonegate mainline rail station with frequent services to London. The A21 is about 7 miles away and offers quick and easy access to the M25 with links to the wider national motorway network and London airports.



The area is superb for walking, cycling and riding. The Secret Garden provides immediate access to an extensive network of public footpaths and bridleways. The National Trust property, Batemans, former home to Rudyard Kipling is very nearby. There are local garden centres and cafes such as Petals for Plants and the Old Orchard Nursery. Sarah Raven's garden at Perch Hill has regular open days and events. Other nearby attractions include Bewl Water, Bedgebury Pinetum, Lakedown Fishery, golf courses at Hawkhurst and Dale Hill spa hotel.

Marketed by: Samuel and Son, Horam