A garden filled with bluebells is entering its 50th year and is hoping to have its biggest season yet.

The Bluebell Walk in Arlington is preparing to open once again in April and will allow visitors to walk through woodlands filled with flowers.

The garden, near Polegate, which was first opened in 1972, has raised nearly £1 million for charity and will continue to help support the surrounding community.

John McCutchan, who owns the Bluebell Walk, said: “Being our 50th anniversary makes it a very special year indeed on the Arlington Bluebell Walk.

The Argus: Arlington Bluebell WalkArlington Bluebell Walk (Image: Arlington Bluebell Walk)

"We will be open daily for four weeks from April 11 until May 10, and of course supporting local charities is at the heart of what we do.

"There will be 19 charities managing the walks and providing the refreshments, and they will each receive a substantial donation from the overall proceeds."

John and his wife Carolyn set up the garden over 50 years ago and he now runs the garden with a team since Carolyn died.

The garden has been honoured as a Royal Horticultural Society Partner Garden in 2023.

For the 50th anniversary, it will have a bird feeding station which will be live streamed into the catering area.


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The garden walk itself consists of 1.5 acres with wildflower meadows and views of the South Downs.

John said: "After my wife died, Emma Reece and her team have done an amazing job renovating it.

"It is so tranquil, relaxing and very good for one's mental health.

"We aim to make improvements every year, and this year we are making 18 mobility scooters available. Back in 2019, they were used 500 times so I am confident this will be popular.”

The Argus: Arlington Bluebell WalkArlington Bluebell Walk (Image: Arlington Bluebell Walk)

The garden raises money for charity each year and has so far raised £890,291.

Arlington Bluebell Walk will open April 11 until May 10, from 10am until 5pm.

Entry costs £6 per adult and half price for under 16s, with no need to book before arriving.