Filming At Wakehurst

Sussex Film Office would like to introduce a new member: Wakehurst.

Nestled in the heart of Sussex, Wakehurst is managed by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and is open for filming and photography. It is a horticultural treasure, with impressive landscapes and a rich history, all spread over 465 acres.

Of particular interest is the Coates Woodland Trail, with its atmospheric mix of Australasian woodland trees (Eucalyptus, Nothofagus, Wollemi pine and southern beech). You could be fooled into thinking you are on the other side of the world, but without the associated time, money and travel costs.

Perhaps a dramatic South American landscape is more what you need? If so, as the Coates Trail progresses, you come to a steep hill that is home to 60 monkey puzzle trees. They were collected from Chile by Wakehurst horticulturalists; the seed doesn’t cope with being stored long-term, so growing them is the only way to preserve this endangered species. It is hard to imagine that these backdrops are in the South of England!

Wakehursts Water Gardens with their streams, lily ponds and little wooden bridges are complemented by ancient woodlands of native trees, that connect the present with the past.

The Loder Valley Nature Reserve spans 65 acres of rhododendron, magnolia and camellia trees that create a tapestry of colours. Wakehurst is also home to world-famous Millennium Seed Bank.

Wakehurst has something special in every season: Spring’s fresh new shades make way for Summer’s colour. Later in the year, Autumn’s reds and golds fade, leaving room for the crispness of the Winter Garden.

Beyond horticulture, Wakehurst’s mansion house dates back to the 16th century. While it isn’t open to the public, it can be used as a backdrop. The outside of its Tudor architecture are complemented by walled gardens, lawns, a croquet lawn, carriage ring and pond.

Wakehurst offers the past, present, and future of our plants and offers an abundance of filming opportunities in one, beautiful location.