
Discover more at Nymans
Find out when Nymans is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
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.
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.
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.
Find out when Nymans is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Browse local and artisan products in our shop, with a wide range of plants including some grown on site in ‘The Nymans Collection’.
Historic houses and buildings are full of stories, art and collections. Learn more about their past and plan your next visit.
From the art gallery at Petworth, to a cosy Arts and Crafts home at Standen, you'll be amazed at the variety of houses and unusual buildings to explore in Sussex.