Let’s Visit The Old Rectory

In advance of Open Gardens season Helen Brown was invited for a guided tour of the stunning grounds at The Old Rectory in Newick, as the owners, Lisa Welton and her family, prepare the gardens, ready to welcome the public on the 21st June in aid of St Peter & St James Hospice

The 10 acres at The Old Rectory is one of over 50 gardens participating in St Peter & St James Hospice Open Garden season this year and it’s the third time The Old Rectory has taken part. Since purchasing the property in 2009, the family have gradually transformed the garden.

The Old Rectory is a building of historic significance in Newick, dating from between 173585, though previously there was a dwelling on the site dating back to the 11th century, from which the mote remains. Originally the building was considerably smaller, but alterations have been made during the Georgian and Victorian period. Notable residents included the Baden Powell family and Lady Price who later owned Wakehurst Place. The 300-yearold avenue of limes is one of the most iconic elements of the house and garden, though sadly they’re getting old and so a replanting program is underway to provide their continuity for future generations.

We didn’t inherit an established garden, Lisa explained, “there were remnants of previous gardens, but we started afresh with what was essentially

a blank canvas. One of our first projects was to refashion the walled garden and I wanted the space to be in keeping with the house’s provenance.” Originally at the front of the house with herbaceous borders, it was decided to recreate the feature along with a gothic arch to the rear of the house. Another major project has been the steady replanting of the yew hedges, with hundreds of plants, as would have originally featured in the garden. “I feel we are unlocking the gardens’ historic potential. It’s a journey which gives back what you put in,” explained Lisa.

Lisa’s grandfather had an active passion for gardening and her love of it came through him, and also her father who helped her transform their previous garden. She can often be found discussing future garden projects together with her gardener, Ian Lucas. She told me, “None of this garden would have been possible without the knowledge, commitment and experience of Ian working alongside me.”

Visitors on the 21st June can expect to see the walled garden, white garden, kitchen garden and mote in full bloom. “I’m confident there It’s a joy to open the garden to raise awareness and funds

will be plenty for visitors to enjoy,” Lisa said. “The Newick Hospice Support Group will be serving teas from the pavilion, and our local pub will provide a Pimm’s stall.”

As for what motivates Lisa and her family to open their garden for St Peter & St James Hospice, the reason is simple. “The Hospice is at the heart of Sussex and our Community, it’s a joy to open the garden in order to raise awareness and funds.”

Lisa has chosen to devote her spare time to helping causes to which she feels passionate. Her involvement with the hospice has grown over many years. At first, helping at local events, volunteering in various guises and participating in Open Gardens, whilst she also serves as a Patron. l For more details of all the Open Gardens visit: www.stpjhospice.org/open-garden