THE OUTDOORS | Highdown Gardens

In active pursuit of proving the notion that dreary, damp weather should never stop you from enjoying the great outdoors, my husband and I took a trip to Highdown Gardens, Sussex yesterday. And while autumn may not quite yet be in full swing, it was certainly in the air.

Drizzly rather than torrential, the rain gave the plants a sheen that only enhanced the colours of the changing leaves. And there's something about that damp, muddy smell I just can't get enough of.

Unlike other British gardens, Highdown is home to many unusual and exotic plants introduced to the grounds by pioneering botanists, Reginald Farrer and Ernest Henry Wilson. The gardens themselves were created by Sir Frederick and later cared for by his wife, Lady Stern after his death in 1967. What's so interesting is that Highdown is the result of Sir Frederick's determination to grow rare and exotic plants in an area entirely formed of chalk. I'm no horticulturialist (as you may know be aware) but as I understand it, this is no mean feat.

What's more, some of those original plants from Farrer and Wilson's collections are still evident in the gardens today.

Visit tip: this would be a wonderful place to take young children all year round. There are so many winding paths and hidden passages to discover, plus lots of shaded grassed areas that would make it ideal for a picnic - although perhaps when it's not raining.

Highdowns Gardens is located just outside of Worthing in the Sussex Downs. Visit www.highdowngardens.co.uk/ for more information. There's no admission charge but to aid in the upkeep of these beautiful public gardens, a donation is suggested.

If you manage to pay a visit to these beautiful gardens, please share your experiences. Feel free to leave a comment in the box below.

Victoria