Parham House & Gardens — Local services in Horsham

I and two friends arrived before the garden opening time of 12pm so we took a lovely stroll from the free carpark to the church of St Peters which overlooks hills and valleys. (Wheelchairs can use the main track.) A church which dates back at least to the 15th century. Enclosed pews one with its own fireplace. Seats outside allow youu to take in the beauty and peace of the surroundings. We then walked back to enter the walled garden and the gardens around including a lake with views towards the South Downs. The gardens are an absolute delight! Every step stops you to photograph, study the range of plants, flowers, fabulous colours, shapes. A herb garden with a cherub which overlooks beautiful deep pink Lillie's. The statuary which peep out of corners and flowerbeds look old and add that refinement and depth to the gardens. Path after path lead you to a succession of surprises. The colours are fabulous. An old glasshouse tunnel with further plants, some quite exotic. The gardens are frankly a joy! Coffee, paninis, sandwiches and cakes from the tearoom can be enjoyed inside or on the lawn outside. Trees of all sizes and type. The toilets which were spacious, so clean and adorned with fabulous flowers. And then Parham House which opened at 2pm. How can I describe the pleasure this was! Each floor followed a historical period with wonderful portraits. We talked to kind, friendly, so informed attendants whose amazing knowledge brought each room to life which the printed word does not do for me. They were so knowledgeable, communicated such enthusiasm and email. By the time we reached the top gallery, I realised one needs to come back time and time again to take in the fascinating history from Elizabethan times Georgian, Victoria and so much more. What a credit this house and the grounds are to the owners work in renovation and upkeep and sensitivity to retaining its character and beauty. And a credit to those who create the flower displays which are everywhere, to those who work in the gardens and those who attend each room in the house who are personally charming and fascinating to listen to. It was a serene, relaxing, enlightening experience for my friends and myself. A privilege to visit. Thank you to...

Parham House, located in Storrington, West Sussex, is a magnificent Elizabethan manor house set within beautiful gardens and parkland. Here's an overview:

Historical Significance: Parham House dates back to the 16th century and has been the home of the Pearson family for generations. The house showcases the architectural and design evolution of its various periods.

Elizabethan Architecture: The house is a fine example of Elizabethan architecture, characterized by its mullioned windows, gables, and distinctive chimneys. Visitors can explore the well-preserved rooms that reflect the lifestyle of different eras.

Gardens: Parham is renowned for its stunning gardens, featuring walled gardens, herbaceous borders, and a four-acre Pleasure Ground. The gardens are carefully landscaped and include a variety of plants, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll.

Events and Activities: Parham House hosts various events throughout the year, including garden tours, plant fairs, and cultural programs. These events provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the estate's history and horticultural features.

Art Collections: The house is home to an impressive collection of art, furniture, and textiles. Visitors can appreciate the carefully curated items on display, each with its own historical and artistic significance.

Parkland: The estate surrounding Parham House includes extensive parkland where visitors can enjoy walks and picnics. The landscape complements the grandeur of the house and gardens.

Tea Room: A visit to Parham often includes a stop at the tea room, providing a chance to relax and enjoy refreshments amidst the picturesque surroundings.

Seasonal Openings: Parham House and Gardens typically open to the public during the spring and summer months, allowing visitors to experience the estate's beauty at its peak.

In summary, Parham House is a captivating blend of history, art, and natural beauty, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Elizabethan architecture and the pastoral charm of its meticulously...

Parham is beautiful - my favourite kind of Tudor house in creamy stone, with elegant facades and an exquisite interior restored and maintained to perfection. I'm a National Trust member, so I visit their houses often, and it's a pleasure to see something unique and different, without the NT 'stamp'. The owners clearly love the place. The gardens are dreamy, especially in early May (I suspect) when we visited. SO much work must go into them. No space here to describe their variety and their pristine presentation. We felt the entrance fee was small, for the number of things to see and the space and the walks, and the breathtaking views of the South Downs. I particularly liked the room with all the family history - just the right amount of information, and with intimacy and warmth, from family quotes and domestic detail. My one suggestion is this: the great British public is obsessed with its tea rooms, and the paper cups and tin chairs of the (independently run??) cafe at Parham is a contrast to the extreme elegance of all the rest. If it's possible, the house would hugely benefit from something classier, matching the house and gardens. Cups and saucers, wooden furniture - not much more than that is needed. The tea and cakes were good, but we were surprised by the 'takeaway' feel.

Oh, I forgot the fabulous tapestry and needlepoint collection. All over the house. And of every kind, with astonishing examples from centuries ago....