Explore Nymans house

The Library at Nymans | © National Trust Images / Andreas von Einsiedel.

Part ruin, part house, this medieval style manor is not as old as it seems. Ravaged by fire in 1947, the once Gothic mansion is now romantic ruins and unexpectedly charming rooms last occupied by Anne Messel in 1992.

What to see in the house at Nymans

Inside the house you will see small, intimate rooms furnished with tapestries, antique furniture, works of art and other treasures collected by Leonard and Maud Messel.

Paintings by their younger son, the renowned theatre designer Oliver Messel, are also on show. His sister Anne spent her last years here and was keen to preserve the unique feel of her parents’ home.

Although much of the house was lost to fire in the winter of 1947, surviving rooms include the Garden Hall, Dining Room, Book Room and Library.

Look out for paintings by stage designer Oliver Messel, family photographs and a collection of books, many of which relate to gardening.

Anne Messel's desk beneath the window in The Library, Nymans, West Sussex. Anne, later Lady Rosse, was the the granddaughter of Ludwig Messel, who bought the Nymans Estate in the 1890s, extending the house and founding its stunning gardens. — Anne Messel's desk beneath the window in The Library at Nymans | © National Trust Images/Andreas von Einsiedel

Throughout the year the Broadwood piano in the Garden Hall is played by volunteers, filling the intimate spaces of the house with atmospheric music.

Some of the rooms are dark, which helps protect the original textiles and paintings.

The house and gallery close for short periods throughout the year for conservation cleaning.

The Forecourt garden, with stone-paved paths, square lawns and small trees, with the house behind, at Nymans, West Sussex

Discover more at Nymans

Find out when Nymans is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

Plan your visit

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Visiting Nymans garden

Romantic ruins, intimate gardens and internationally recognised plant collections, all set against a backdrop of the woodland and far-reaching views over the Weald. In summer find a shady spot to sit and enjoy the garden.

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Explore Nymans’ woodlands and wider estate

Nymans’ ancient woodland is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), nature reserve and home to a variety of plants and wildlife. Stroll along shaded woodland paths, cool down at the side of the lake and listen to the soothing sound of nature.

A young family in the garden with a child in arms pointing at a flower

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Things to do with the kids at Nymans

Join in with a summer of play from Sat 19 July with fun activities and active challenges in Comber's Field. Discover natural play in the Play Glade, activities and events in the school holidays and an ancient woodland and garden to discover. Picnic anywhere in the garden, or pick up a snack from the cafe or kiosk. Baby change available by the house and in the cafe and car park.

The Gothic ruins at Nymans, West Sussex in spring

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The history of Nymans house and garden

Under generations of the Messel family, Nymans in West Sussex has been through several transformations since the 1890s to become the house, ruin and garden you see today.

A close up view of a scone served on a plate with a generous helping of jam and cream

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Eating at Nymans

If you're after a meal or just a quick pit-stop, try our summer menu with freshly prepared food inspired by the season. Try roasted squash, quinoa and chickpea salad or sample a delicious Jude's ice cream. Quick snacks and delicious cakes available too.