A Hidden Valley Garden
Coverwood Lakes is one of Surrey’s best-kept garden secrets. Tucked into a valley near Peaslake in the heart of the Surrey Hills, the garden centres on a chain of natural-looking lakes fed by streams that rise on Holmbury Hill. The garden has been created over several decades by the owners, who have worked with the natural topography to create a series of interconnected water features, bog plantings and woodland glades.
The bog garden is particularly impressive, with stands of candelabra primulas, iris, ligularia and moisture-loving ferns edging the waterside. Higher up the slopes, the planting transitions to rhododendrons, azaleas and mature deciduous trees that provide dappled shade in summer and a rich palette of colour in autumn.
Bluebells & Open Days
Coverwood opens for the National Garden Scheme during bluebell season (usually late April to mid-May) and occasionally at other times for charity. The bluebell display in the ancient woodland surrounding the lakes is one of the finest in the county, with dense carpets of native Hyacinthoides non-scripta stretching beneath the beech canopy.
Access is along narrow lanes from Peaslake or Ewhurst, so early arrival is recommended on open days. Parking is in a field adjacent to the garden. Home-made teas are usually available during NGS openings. The garden is not far from Peaslake village, which offers a well-known mountain-biking hub and the Peaslake Village Stores.
