View from the edge of the arboretum over the house and gardens

When we visited West Dean Gardens in the summer it was too warm to get out to the arboretum and we pledged to return. Today we did that.

Following a path towards the house and gardens from the edge of the arboretum

Four black-faced sheep stare at me from beneath a tree

It was a lovely day to be out among the trees and the art. Breezy loved the arboretum. Or maybe the sheep. Either way, it confirmed our July decision: the arboretum would have been too exciting for her in the heat.

Regeneration by James Wild installed at West Dean Gardens with parkland and autumn trees visible through it

The house behind Calm in Chaos by James Wild

Portal by James Wild with a view of the arboretum behind

I enjoyed the three sculptures, Regeneration, Calm in Chaos and Portal by James Wild, which I think have been installed since our previous visit. Although Regeneration and Portal look similar, the scale is different. Portal sits on top of a plinth, while Regeneration stands on the ground and is taller than me.

On our last visit we were impressed with how dog friendly the gardens were. We tried the café today and found it dog friendly throughout, with no segregation required. One of the waiters even came and made a fuss of Breezy.

The shop is a lovely place to browse too, with a great collection of well-curated items. We left with a couple of gifts for friends and family.