Introduction
The garden may have been designed by Gertrude Jekyll. It was originally a medieval farm, with Victorian and later improvements. The 1st edition Ordnance Survey map shows the house built on three sides around a courtyard, but the layout has changed considerably.
Observations from the 1st edition Ordnance Survey map shows that the house was buot on three sides around a courtyard. Boundaries are difficult to establish. There are two ponds to the south-east of the house.
The modern Ordnance Survey map is hard to equate with the 1st edition, as the house has changed substantially. The ponds are no longer there.
- History
Formerly called Fidges, or Fidgets Farm, the site dates back to 1327, when Richard Fychet owned it. It was once part of the Buckhurst Estate. The house and gardens were greatly altered in the 19th century.
Fishers Gate was so-called, because it was one of many gates into the Royal Forest of Ashdown. In 1922 it was the house of the Earl de la Warr, who enlarged and improved the house. The timber frame was covered by a Neo-Georgian exterior. The home farm consisted of around 850 acres of pasture and arable land.
Period
- 20th Century (1901 to 2000)
- Early 20th Century (1901 to 1932)
- Associated People
- Features & Designations
Features
- Farm
- Gardens
- House
- Courtyard
- Key Information
Type
Garden
Purpose
Ornamental
Principal Building
Domestic / Residential
Period
20th Century (1901 to 2000)
Survival
Part: standing remains
Open to the public
Yes
Civil Parish
Withyham