Borde Hill Estate: A New Era of Inclusivity and Community Engagement

In the picturesque landscape of West Sussex, approximately 20 miles from Brighton, lies the 2,300-acre Borde Hill estate. This historic property, owned by the same family since 1893, is undergoing a remarkable transformation under the leadership of Jay Goddard, who recently assumed the role of managing director.

Goddard's daily routine begins with a mindful walk through the estate's grounds, accompanied by her Labrador. This practice helps her maintain perspective as she navigates the challenges of her new position. "I try and push myself every day to be present and appreciative of the beauty of where I am, and try not to let the work side overwhelm me," she explains.

The estate's rich history dates back to 1598 when the main house was constructed by Stephen Borde, grandson of Henry VIII's private herbalist. In 1893, Goddard's great-great-grandfather, Colonel Stephenson Robert Clarke, acquired the property. Clarke, an avid horticulturist, sponsored plant-hunters and developed the gardens with the philosophy of "right plant, right place."

Goddard's vision for Borde Hill focuses on community engagement and inclusivity. The cornerstone of this approach is the "Reinventing Borde Hill" project, which recently secured £2.25 million in funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. This initiative aims to create new spaces for outdoor learning and wellbeing, including a "Dinosaur Wood" in the Grade II*-listed South Park, inspired by 19th-century fossil discoveries in the area.

A key component of the project is the construction of a multi-purpose lodge by the estate's lake, built using timber from the property. This facility will house a yoga studio, classroom, and cafe, with the added feature of lake swimming access. Goddard envisions this space as a "community hub that will enable people of all ages to be in the great outdoors."

The estate is also collaborating with the NHS on innovative health initiatives. "We've been doing what we've called 'walkie-talkies,'" Goddard shares. "Rather than seeing a therapist in a stark, white room, patients have been coming to the garden and the parkland for their sessions. It has been so impactful and the feedback has been wonderful."

To broaden access to the estate, Goddard plans to introduce a lower-priced entry option for the South Park area and develop a community card system. She emphasizes, "Nature is for all and that's one of the most exciting things – that we can create and safeguard such a beautiful space for everyone."

Reflecting on her transition from a career in public relations to estate management, Goddard acknowledges the weight of her new responsibilities. However, she finds joy in her role as custodian of this historic property. "Walking my dog here, early in the morning or after hours, is one of my life's joys," she concludes, embodying the balance between preservation and progress that defines Borde Hill's new chapter.