New Butterfly Gardens Open at One Garden Brighton
Published on 13 April 2026
00:00 - 00:00
This May half term, One Garden Brighton is set to unveil a vibrant new addition to Stanmer Park. On Saturday, 23rd May at 10:00am, the Sussex Butterfly Gardens will officially open to the public following an ambitious restoration project that has breathed new life into the estate’s historic Palm House thanks to Matthew Simmonds, founder of Middleton Common Farm Butterfly Gardens & London Butterfly Gardens.
Located at One Garden Brighton - owned and managed by Plumpton College - the 1952 Palm House is one of only three surviving structures of its kind, designed by Hartleys in the 1950s Victorian style. Now, thanks to a collaboration between Plumpton alumna and former Animal Management Student Beth Brockwell and Matthew Simmonds, founder of Sussex Butterfly Gardens, the Palm House faces a new future with the historic structure reimagined as an ethically managed butterfly sanctuary.
Transforming the historic Palm House into a lush, tropical sanctuary for hundreds of butterflies is a proud moment," says Matthew Simmonds, Director and Founder of Sussex Butterfly Gardens. "This project is defined by its synergy; by working alongside One Garden Brighton and Plumpton College, we are creating a fully immersive visitor attraction. It offers an interactive jungle experience for the public while providing students with hands-on experience in a truly unique environment.
A Living Classroom and Tropical Escape
The climate-controlled gardens are designed to sustain hundreds of exotic butterflies, moths, and invertebrates. By maintaining a precise warm and humid environment, the facility supports both the insects and tropical flora required for them to feed and breed.
For Plumpton College, the project represents more than a tourist attraction; it is a significant educational milestone. For students, the gardens will serve as a ‘living classroom’, offering hands-on work experience in a professional environment. For visitors, the Gardens offers a unique educational experience with the opportunity to learn about climates, animals and different horticultural environments.
We are delighted to be able to launch this fantastic new partnership with another business from the local community. We have been looking for the right collaboration in which to bring this space at One Garden Brighton back to life for some time. Matthew’s expertise is unparalleled and the involvement of our former student Beth makes for a very special project. We look forward to welcoming the wider community to the Sussex Butterfly Gardens including schools and our own students. Jeremy Kerswell, Principal at Plumpton College.
Opening 23rd May and tickets are available to book now at Butterfly Garden Brighton.
Category: College News
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