Parks, Gardens and Wildlife
Whether you’re naturally outdoorsy or looking for a countryside retreat from the city, there are plenty of choices to get fresh air in and around Petworth. Explore the rolling hills of the South Downs to spot wildlife or visit manicured lawns and perfectly landscaped gardens of nearby stately homes.
The South Downs National Park
Covering over 1,600 square kilometres, the South Downs is a treasure trove of iconic English landscapes including green hills, rugged heathland, enchanting woodlands, quaint villages, bustling market towns, white cliffs and river valleys.
Bird watching in West Sussex
West Sussex is home to a wide variety of native birds. If you are lucky, you could spot a Peregrine falcon, barn owls, lapwings, nightingales and wigeons.
For tips on the best conditions and times of year to spot birds visit the RSPB website
Petworth Park
When you first set eyes on Petworth House and the large park surround, it is no wonder why this landscape became such an inspiration for English Romantic painters like Turner.
Designed by Capability Brown
The landscape is the work of Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, known as the last great English gardener. Capability Brown, is responsible for some the nation’s most recognisable and admired gardens including the grounds of Hampton Court Palace, Blenheim Palace and Chatsworth House.
Though the park was changed during the Second World War, when it was used for army camps, many of Capability Brown’s signature designs can still be seen, for example in the Rotunda and Doric Temple in the park.
In addition to the landscaped gardens there is also a 700-acre deer park. The park has been home to deer for over 500 years, and it is said that Henry VIII used to hunt here.
Nearby Gardens and Wildlife Experiences
Just beyond the town walls you can find an extraordinary range of stately homes and wild landscapes to explore. It’s time to break in your walking boots!
Classical design meets modern structures at Woolbeding Gardens
Gifted to the National Trust in 1957, the Woolbeding Estate covers 1102 acres, including 26 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. Over the last 50 years the gardens have been remodeled by great designers who have brought to life the lands and created both formal gardens near to the Georgian house and a Pleasure Ground with unique structures, waterfalls and glasshouses.
Wildlife Tours and Experiences at Cowdray
A short drive from Petworth you will stumble across the acres of land of the Cowdray estate. They offer numerous unique experiences including fly fishing, a wildlife tour and even survival skills training. You can also walk through their grounds, woodlands and visit the historical buildings and Tudor ruins.
Knepp Castle Rewilding project
A short drive away in the medieval market town of Horsham you will find Knepp Castle. The land here is devoted to rewilding native creatures such as longhorn cattle, weasels, badgers, foxes, red deer and ponies. The team offer safaris across their 3,500 acre estate where you can learn more about the rewilding project.
