The Grounds
The hotel nestles on a secluded warm level
terrace on a gentle south slope with fine views to the south and
south-west across the Weald. The 93 acres of woodland, formal
lawns, ponds and gardens are particularly impressive and effective
in spring and autumn.
Planted mainly with trees and shrubs, over 200 varieties of
Rhododendron, azalea and camellia and a collection of native trees,
mainly beech and oak, the upkeep of these extensive grounds is a
full time job for our team of gardeners and grounds staff.
A word or two from Head Gardener, Russell Yates
July is a superb month for colour in the
garden. Our pots and baskets begin to make a vibrant impression and
displays of colour throughout the borders catch the eye. The
weather is now a good deal warmer and the days are longer so early
evenings can be ideal for taking a relaxing walk or just to enjoy a
comfortable chair in your favourite position.
The main tasks for the gardens team are to
make sure we stay on top of the watering demands and we also have
our Big Band event where we like to have the garden looking at its
best.
Record breaking!
On the front lawn, you will find a
Rhododendron Arboreum. This is the largest single Rhododendron
in England, is over 150 years old and standing at 25 feet tall, it
produces a mass of cerise flowers in late April and early May,
which is truly a sight to behold.
Ancient roots
The Camellia Restaurant (3 AA Rosettes) is
named after the Camellia ‘Donckelarii’ that grows on the south
terrace. This Camellia was in existence when Frederick Du Cane
Godman built South Lodge in 1883; the story goes that the Camellia
was growing against the south wall of the previous Tudor building
and when this was demolished to make way for South Lodge, a small
section of the wall immediately behind the Camellia was left intact
to preserve its roots, which makes the Camellia well over 250 years
old.
Take me to the Camellia
Restaurant
Hidden treasures
A short stroll across the beautifully
manicured, tiered lawns brings you to a beautiful lake with a
pretty babbling brook running into the lake and winding pathways.
And lastly, tucked away behind the impressive Rhododendron on the
front lawn, is a Victorian rockery.
Tell me more about dining
al fresco on the terrace
There’s so much to see and explore, pick up a map of the grounds
from reception once you've arrived.