The Deer Park at Petworth

Fallow deer standing in grass parkland in front of trees and Petworth House — Fallow deer in the parkland at Petworth, Sussex, in autumn | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

The 700-acre Deer Park at Petworth is one of the finest surviving and unspoilt examples of an English landscape designed by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown. Boasting far-reaching views of the South Downs, the historic park is an ideal place to escape the crowds, take an invigorating walk and let the children run wild. Petworth Park is open for you and your dog to enjoy every day of the year.

A historic herd

The magnificent herd of fallow deer have called Petworth Park home for over 500 years; they were reportedly hunted by Henry VIII on his visit to Petworth in the 1520s. Today between 700 and 800 deer grace the parkland. You may be able to glimpse a few as you explore.

Ancient trees at Petworth

Petworth Park is home to an assortment of ancient and veteran trees, some of which are nearly 1,000 years old. Here are some highlights to look out for:

Three ancient oak trees, one of which was a sapling during the Norman conquest of 1066 and is likely older than any of the buildings at Petworth.
The ‘Beelzebub’ oak dates back to 1779 and marked the parish boundary; it has been suggested that its name came from the superstition that land outside the parish was dangerous.
Sweet chestnuts up to 600 years old, some gnarled and twisted from lightning strikes.
A hollow common lime tree, at least 500 years old but able to continue as a hollow shell for hundreds more.

How the Park is managed

The grounds are managed sustainably for wildlife and are protected under a Higher Level Stewardship agreement with Natural England. Please be mindful of the environment and follow the Countryside Code when you visit.

Fallow deer stags at Petworth House and Park, West Sussex — Fallow deer stags at Petworth | © National Trust Images/Adrian Holloway

Winter wildlife in the park

As the air turns colder the park gains a quietness during the winter months. By the end of November the fallow deer rutting season is over, and they can be seen walking calmly over the hills of Petworth Park once more. You may see the herd taking shelter under trees in strong winds, rain or snowfall.

Watch the resident Canada geese take to the water on the Upper Pond, or see the mallards standing on the ice as the plummeting temperature causes the water to freeze. Frosts can be a spectacular sight to see in the park, with the leafless ancient trees silhouetted against the hills of the South Downs.

View over the lake at Petworth, West Sussex | © National Trust Images/John Miller

Water safety

Please refrain from entering the water in Petworth Park. The water quality isn't tested and there is a high risk of waterborne diseases and toxins in standing water. There are also underwater obstructions and no lifeguards to watch over your safety; swimming is not permitted.