Highlights
- Four lakes at the heart of the garden, linked by paths through wooded glades
- Autumn colour, including many black tupelos (Nyssa sylvatica)
- National Collection of Ghent azaleas, flowering in late spring and early summer
- Garden for the Future, designed by Joe Perkins
- Historic parkland with the River Ouse and the 1884 cricket ground
About Sheffield Park and Garden
The landscape at Sheffield Park took shape in the 18th century, when Lancelot "Capability" Brown visited from 1775 and reworked the lakes below the Gothic house. Humphry Repton is also thought to have worked in the park. In the late 19th century the 3rd Earl of Sheffield laid out a cricket ground, where an Australian touring side played in 1884.
The garden's present character comes largely from Arthur Soames, who bought the estate in 1909 and planted trees and shrubs chosen for their colour, particularly in autumn. The National Trust acquired the garden in 1954 and added a large area of parkland in 2007. The house itself remains a private home and is not open to visitors.
What to see
- The lakes: four lakes form the centre of the garden, with paths looping through glades and woodland around them.
- Autumn trees: black tupelos, maples and other trees turn the water's edge red, orange and gold.
- Azaleas and rhododendrons: including the National Collection of Ghent azaleas, scented and at their best in late spring.
- Garden for the Future: a new area designed by Chelsea award winner Joe Perkins.
- The parkland: open pasture, tree copses and the River Ouse, with winter birds.
Planning your visit
Sheffield Park is between Haywards Heath and Uckfield, and the Bluebell Railway's Sheffield Park station is close by. Parking is free for all visitors, and there is a café, shop, bookshop, plant sales and a play area. Paths in the garden are mostly suitable for wheelchairs, though some are loose gravel, and a mobility scooter can be booked by phone. Last entry is 45 minutes before closing. Dogs are welcome on short leads, except in the garden on Saturday mornings.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to visit Sheffield Park?
From 1 March 2026 an adult ticket is £20.90 including Gift Aid or £19 without, and a child (5 to 17) is £10.50 or £9.50. Under 5s and National Trust members go free, and parking is free.
Are dogs allowed at Sheffield Park?
Yes, on a short, fixed lead in the garden, except on Saturday mornings before 1pm. Dogs must be on a lead in the parkland because of grazing livestock, but can go off lead in East Park.
When is the best time to visit Sheffield Park?
The garden is best known for its autumn colour, when the trees are reflected in the lakes. Azaleas and rhododendrons are at their peak in late spring and early summer.
Is Sheffield Park accessible?
There is Blue Badge parking, accessible toilets and paths suitable for wheelchairs, though some are loose gravel. A mobility scooter can be booked by phone. The parkland paths are unpaved.