Kipling Gardens Rottingdean

A famous resident

Kipling Gardens, in Rottingdean, were once part of The Elms, the house where Rudyard Kipling lived from 1897 to 1902. Kipling rented the beautiful house for just 3 guineas a week. It was here that he wrote Stalky & Co, Kim and some of his famous Just So Stories. When Kipling moved to Burwash, the gardens at The Elms later became derelict for many years under private ownership, and eventually, permission to build on them was sought.

‘Example of horticultural excellence’

Thankfully this application was refused on appeal. The land was bought by Rottingdean Preservation Society, who then restored it creating the present Kipling Gardens. They are considered a fine example of ‘horticultural excellence’ and have been a holder of the prestigious Green Flag, which is awarded to the best parks and green spaces in England and Wales, since 2006.

Formally opened in 1986

Kipling Gardens were opened to the public in 1986, when they were formally handed over to Brighton & Hove Council. They were given for the long-term benefit of residents and visitors, who can relax in quietness and seclusion within the beautiful surroundings. Highlights in the garden include the walled Rose Garden, a Herb Garden and a Wild Garden. The Gardens are open to the public seven days a week; entry is free and there is a ramped path for wheelchairs.

The following is an extract from Rudyard Kipling’s poem ‘The Glory of the Garden’

Oh, Adam was a gardener, and God who made him sees
That half a proper gardener’s work is done upon his knees,
So when your work is finished, you can wash your hands and pray
For the Glory of the Garden, that it may not pass away!
For the Glory of the Garden, that it may not pass away! 

Comments about this page

  • Beautiful gardens and flora, sort of place I would buy if I were ever to become very rich; so peaceful.

    By Mick Peirson (29/06/2018)
  • The gardens were restored from a wilderness to their current beauty by a team from the Brighton and Hove Community Projects Agency. The original purchase price that was paid to save the gardens from development was bequeathed to the community by a homeless man. He said that of the many places that he visited, the people of Rottingdean were the kindest. Although it was always thought that he was penniless he nevertheless had some funds behind him.

    By Bill Bellroth (26/09/2021)

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