Glorious Grounds And Dashing Ducks – Parris Lawn Residents Visit Sheffield Park And Garden

The team at Parris Lawn are always looking for opportunities to take residents out and about, so the chance to enjoy some stunning local National Trust countryside was too good to miss.

Heritage Open Day at Sheffield Park

As part of the Heritage Open Days series, Sheffield Park and Garden threw open its doors on a sunny day in September, offering free entry to all. Parris Lawn’s Head of Hospitality, Sharon, knew the residents would love it, so she set about arranging a special outing.

Sheffield Park and Garden, situated in the beautiful East Sussex countryside, is less than 30 minutes’ drive from Parris Lawn Care Home in Ringmer. Although the gardens were previously part of the estate of Sheffield Park House, they are now looked after separately by the National Trust.

This would be Parris Lawn’s first trip to Sheffield Park, and with Grade I listed landscaped gardens and lakes surrounded by historic parkland and woodland to look forward to, there was a great deal of excitement amongst residents. Many had enjoyed visiting the park independently over the years, while others were keen to spend time at a prime National Trust site.

Sunshine, Fresh Air and Spectacular Scenery

The big day arrived – and began with rain! Nevertheless, the residents enthusiastically boarded the minibus, hired for the day with driver Andy who became a firm favourite. By the time they set off, the sun was out and continued to shine beautifully. This was an especially lovely trip as the team managed to include residents who have previously struggled to attend outings. Everyone was provided with a wheelchair so they could be part of it, and they relished being out in the fresh air, surrounded by beautiful scenery.

There was so much to see – the wider Sheffield Park covers more than 300 acres of Sussex countryside including woodland and the River Ouse floodplain and is home to an abundance of wildlife – but the Parris Lawn party was happy strolling through the grounds along the accessible paths, entranced by the sparkling water around them.

Determined Ducks Appreciate Residents’ Feeding Time

A lakeside vantage point was a popular choice for a pause and the group was soon aware that several rather dashing ducks were heading their way. Luckily, a lovely couple and their child had struck up a conversation, impressed to see so many residents out and about. The family had come prepared with bird feed but it turned out they had a lot left over which they happily shared with the residents. It was a lovely moment – and much appreciated by the ducks who rushed up to be fed!

Residents Herta and Joan said how nice it was to be at Sheffield Park as it brought back memories of spending time with their families. The team had also invited residents’ relatives to join the outing – a wonderful opportunity for them to enjoy a day out with their loved ones, and a chance for them to see firsthand how day trips like these are managed.

New Experiences and Happy Memories

Once the grounds had been admired and enjoyed it was definitely time for a drink and a snack. Coffee and cake at the Coach House Café was the perfect way to round off the day, everyone sitting outside, chatting about what they’d seen during the day, sharing memories and anecdotes - and already asking when the next trip would be taking place!

A Warm Welcome to Parris Lawn

Tucked away in the peaceful village of Ringmer near Lewes, Parris Lawn Care Home offers a calm and comforting environment with beautiful views over the South Downs. With 62 individually styled rooms, each with an en-suite wet room, residents enjoy privacy and comfort tailored to their needs. Whether your loved one requires residential, nursing, dementia, or respite care, our compassionate team is here to provide personalised support every step of the way.

Life at Parris Lawn is about more than just care, it’s about creating meaningful moments. Residents can relax in our cosy cinema, socialise in the bistro café, or treat themselves to a fresh new look in the hair salon. Our varied activities, from creative arts and crafts to gentle exercise and group games, help keep minds and bodies engaged in a friendly and supportive setting.

We invite you to book a private visit and see our home for yourself. To arrange a visit, call 01276 733 398.