The Kemp Town Enclosures are a testament to Regency-era elegance and vision, offering a lush sanctuary amidst Brighton’s vibrant landscape.

Origins & Vision

In the early 19th century, Thomas Read Kemp, a local Member of Parliament, envisioned an exclusive residential area that combined architectural grandeur with natural beauty. Collaborating with architects Amon Henry Wilds and Charles Busby, Kemp initiated the development of the Kemp Town Estate in 1823.

Central to this estate were the Enclosures—private gardens designed to be the community’s verdant heart. 

Design & Development

The landscaping of the Enclosures was entrusted to botanist and landscape gardener Henry Phillips. By 1828, Phillips had transformed the area into a series of interconnected gardens, featuring winding paths, diverse plantings, and open lawns.

A notable addition was the tunnel leading from the gardens to the esplanade, enhancing residents’ access to the seafront. 

Historical Significance

Throughout the 19th century, the Enclosures became a favoured retreat for both residents and distinguished visitors.

Monarchs such as King William IV and Queen Victoria were known to stroll through the gardens during their stays in Brighton. The serene environment offered a respite from public life, allowing for leisurely walks and private reflection. 

Literary Inspiration

The Enclosures have also played a role in literary history. Lewis Carroll, the author of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, was a frequent visitor to Brighton. He often stayed with his friend, the Reverend Henry Barclay, who ran a boys’ preparatory school at 11 Sussex Square between 1874 and 1887.

It is believed that the ivy-covered tunnel within the gardens, which leads from the cultivated lawns to a balcony overlooking the beach, inspired Carroll’s creation of the rabbit hole through which Alice begins her adventures. 

Modern-Day Oasis

Today, the Kemp Town Enclosures continue to serve as a communal haven for the estate’s freeholders. Spanning approximately 6 hectares, the gardens boast a rich variety of flora, meticulously maintained lawns, and pathways that invite exploration.

The original design elements have been preserved, ensuring that the Enclosures remain a cherished green space that reflects their historical roots. 

A Living Legacy

The enduring beauty of the Kemp Town Enclosures stands as a tribute to early 19th-century landscape design and the community’s dedication to preserving this historic gem.

As a private communal garden, it offers residents a unique blend of historical charm and natural splendour, right in the heart of Brighton.