A Garden Reborn After Fire
Clandon Park, a Palladian mansion built in the 1720s for the Onslow family, suffered a devastating fire in April 2015 that gutted much of the house. While the long restoration of the building continues, the National Trust has opened the 18th-century walled garden and surrounding parkland to visitors, turning the grounds into a destination in their own right.
The walled garden has been restored with heritage fruit varieties, espaliered against the mellow brick walls. Cutting-flower borders, a herb parterre and productive vegetable beds reflect the original purpose of the garden as a source of food and flowers for the great house. Interpretation panels tell the story of the estate’s garden staff through the centuries.
Parkland Walks & Conservation
Beyond the walled garden, the parkland offers gentle circular walks through ancient woodland and open meadow. The Māori meeting house Hinemihi, one of only four such structures outside New Zealand, stands in the grounds and is the focus of community events led by Ngāti Ranana, the London Māori Club.
Clandon Park is reached from the A247 in West Clandon, a short distance from Clandon railway station. National Trust members enter free; non-members pay for parking. A small kiosk serves seasonal refreshments. The garden makes a good pairing with nearby Hatchlands Park, just two miles away.
