The Garth
Gardens covering nine acres and designed by renowned architect Walter H Godfrey.
Newchapel Road, Lingfield, Surrey, RH7 6BJ
Facilities
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Accessible loos
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Bike storage facilities
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Cafe / restaurant
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Easily accessible without car
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Garden only
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Mostly wheelchair accessible
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Parkland / open spaces
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Pet friendly
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Picnic area
- Wheelchair ramps/routes
- Accessible toilets
The origins of The Garth, also known as The Garth Pleasure Grounds, go back to 1729 when the Lingfield parish drew up a contract, with a local carpenter Thomas Stanford, to build a new workhouse at a cost of £290. It provided basic schooling for boys making shoes, hats, bonnets and waistcoats.
The garden at the Garth covers 9 acres and was designed in 1919 by a distinguished historic Arts and Crafts buildings and landscape architect Walter H Godfrey (1881-1961). “The Garth Pleasure Grounds” as the garden was described, includes various features designed by Godfrey such as a terrace, gazebo, pergola, bird bath, well, the courtyard bench, small fountain and ornate iron gates.
The grounds were altered in the late 20th Century but a plan of the garden from 1922 shows that it retained many key features from Godfrey’s original design. The garden is subdivided into many separate ‘rooms’, often by hedges or walls, and with paths linking the individual areas. The garden represents an idyllic setting surrounding the former parish workhouse which was also refurbished by Godfrey.
Tea, coffee, and cakes will be available on the days we are open.
The owner will personally provide a tour to highlight the history of the workhouse and the features of the garden designed by W H Godfrey. The tour can be adapted to suit visitors’ requirements. Please contact us regarding requirements for tours and refreshments.
Please note: The information on the Historic Houses website is advisory, but please always check the website of the house or garden you intend to visit before travelling.
2024
NGS Open Days (not free for Historic Houses members) – 5 and 12 May (1-5pm)
Open Days for general public (free for Historic Houses members) – 6-11 May and 13-19 May (1-5pm)
Free entry for Historic Houses members except on the days we open for the National Gardens Scheme. Entry for non-members is £10 for adults, children under 5 free.
Groups up to 40 visitors are welcome by arrangement. Please get in touch by email. Limited parking available on site. Public car park is in Gunpit Road which is 10 min walk away
- Wheelchair ramps/routes
- Accessible toilets
Getting here
Newchapel Road, Lingfield, Surrey, RH7 6BJ
We are on the west side of Lingfield village on the north side of Newchapel Road, nearly opposite the Barge Tiles shop.
The main visitor entrance is at ///rungs.clown.salad What does this mean?
By Car
From A22 take B2028 by Mormon Temple to Lingfield. The Garth is on the left opposite Barge Tiles.
By Public Transport
Trains go from London Victoria or Clapham Junction to Lingfield station. We are 20 min walk from the station.
We spent time researching the house and grounds and are refurbishing the gardens following the plans we located in the Lewis archives. Our project is still in progress.
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