Discover more at Scotney Castle
Find out when Scotney Castle is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Guided Garden & Estate Tours at Scotney Castle
Scotney Castle invites you to explore its gardens and 780 acre estate on free guided tours running from February to November, led by knowledgeable volunteers who bring its rich history, vibrant wildlife, and ongoing conservation work to life.
Guided Garden Tours
Scotney Castle showcases one of the finest Picturesque style gardens in the UK, and our guided tours offer the perfect way to experience its beauty.
Join us to uncover the principles behind this celebrated design, explore seasonal highlights, and enjoy a scenic route shaped by sweeping views and thoughtfully crafted landscapes.
How do I book?
Garden tours are included with your entry ticket/National Trust membership and there’s no need to book in advance. I
f you are visiting specifically for a tour, please call 01892 893820 on the day, as tours may occasionally be cancelled due to volunteer absence.
Tours follow accessible paths, however we recommend wearing weather appropriate clothing and comfortable footwear. Please remeber to book parking in advance to avoid disapointment.
Where does the tour start?
Please meet at the garden board by the Visitor Entrance before tours depart at 11am and 2.30pm:
Tour themes:
- Spring interest
- Monday 9 February - Friday 27 March
- Trees of interest
- Monday 30 March - Friday 17 April
- Rhododendron Walks
- Monday 20 April – Friday 15 May
- Herbaceous Borders
- Monday 18 May – Friday 12 June
- Roses
- Monday 15 – Friday 26 June
- Wild Flowers in the Garden
- Monday 29 June – Friday 24 July
- Herbaceous Borders
- Monday 27 July – Friday 7 August
- Long Grass Management
- Monday 10 – Friday 28 August
- Herbaceous Borders
- Monday 31 August – Friday 25 September
- Autumn Colour in the Garden
- Monday 26 October – Friday 27 November
Guided Estate Walks
Free guided estate walks will run seven days a week at 11.30am and 2pm, from late February/early March.
Led by one of our knowledgeable volunteers, these walks offer the chance to explore Scotney’s 780 acres of historic parkland and woodland, featuring veteran trees, sweeping vistas, and our native rare‑breed Sussex cattle. As a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), the estate is home to remarkable plant, animal, and insect life—so don’t forget your camera
Estate tours are included with your entry ticket or National Trust membership, and there’s no need to book in advance. If you are visiting specifically for a tour, we recommend calling 01892 893820 on the day, as tours may occasionally be cancelled due to volunteer absence.
We advise wearing sturdy, comfortable footwear—especially early or late in the season when the ground may be wet or muddy. The route follows mainly grass footpaths with some uneven terrain, and certain sections are not accessible for wheelchairs or buggies. Dogs are welcome on a short lead.
Please meet by the white Salvin gate near the main visitor entrance to begin your walk and don't forget to book parking in advance.
