In and around East Sussex

Batemans House Spring

The home of a famous author, fairytale castles and more await you in and around East Sussex

Places to visit

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Visiting this spring 

Our gardens, parks and countryside locations are open. Cafés are offering a takeaway service and some outdoor seating is available at cafés in England only. Some shops are open in England and Wales but remain closed in Northern Ireland. All houses are currently closed. The safety of our staff, volunteers and visitors remains our priority. To avoid disappointment please book in advance, especially at busier times such as weekends and bank holidays. Please check the property webpage before you visit and follow government guidance.

More details on what's open

Out and about this spring

Scotney spring view daffs

Top walks in East Sussex 

From bluebell woods to daffodil beds, new life in the fields to warmer rays overhead, there's so many reasons to get out and about this spring. Find coast, countryside and everything in between on a walk in East Sussex.

Field of scilla and a tree in the middle

Gardens and parks in East Sussex 

Discover a variety of gardens and parks in and around East Sussex this spring. From the garden rooms at Sissinghurst Castle Garden to the family feel of the garden at Bateman's, there's something for everyone.

Signs of spring

Bluebells at Emmetts Garden, a National Trust property in Kent

Best places for bluebells in Kent and East Sussex 

Delight your senses with the sight and scent of a sea of bluebells. Discover the top National Trust places in Kent and East Sussex where you can enjoy bluebells in all their glory.

Batemans Tree Blossom

Best places for blossom in Kent and East Sussex 

Take a stroll through our gardens in Kent and East Sussex under the ethereal arbours of blossoming fruit trees. Discover apple and cherry blossom in the orchards at Sissinghurst or pear blossom in the orchard at Bateman’s.

Hawthorn in flower at Stockbridge Down, Hampshire

Spot blossom where you are 

Join our #BlossomWatch campaign on social media. Take time to admire spring blossom, whether it's from your window, on your street or local walk, or in your garden if you’re lucky enough to have it grow there. You can also share sightings on our blossom map and learn more about identifying blossom and how these floral wonders support wildlife.

Things to try at home

Children looking at a bug

50 things activities to do in your back garden 

Even bold adventurers don't need to go too far from home to tick off challenges from the '50 things' activity list. Here are our top ten ideas for activities that you can do in your own back garden, nearest park or outdoor green space.

A man wearing headphones against a leafy background

Listen to our podcasts 

Did you know that we produce podcasts? You can download episodes for free on a variety of subjects, from the stories behind our gardens, collections and outdoor places, to the houses that helped shape and influence the work of great writers.

Girl using a pestle and mortar in the kitchen

Top family-friendly bakes 

We've picked out top recipes to cook with kids. Quick, easy and delicious, take a look at recipes for cakes, biscuits and savoury snacks.