The Story of the Antony Dale Trust
Hidden behind high walls in the heart of Kemptown lies a rare and remarkable survivor — a garden shaped by nearly two centuries of history, preserved today as a place of quiet beauty, creativity and community.
The Roots of Preservation
In 1950, the Secret Garden was acquired by Antony Dale, founder of the Regency Society and a passionate advocate for the protection of Brighton and Hove’s architectural heritage.
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Living nearby in Sussex Square, Dale was an author, historian and conservationist. Together with his wife, Yvonne, he cared for the garden over many decades, preserving it as a private and deeply cherished space.
A Garden Shared
Under Yvonne Dale’s stewardship, the garden was quietly opened each June, when members of the Regency Society were invited to see it in bloom — particularly its much-admired roses.
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Among those who visited over the years were figures closely connected with Brighton’s cultural life, including Gavin Henderson, alongside other future trustees and supporters. These early gatherings hinted at the garden’s future as a place to be shared more widely.
A Bequeathment for Brighton
Following Antony Dale’s death in 1993, Yvonne gave careful thought to the garden’s future. Rather than allowing it to be lost to development, she resolved to secure it for the benefit of the local community.
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Her vision — shared with her husband — was that the garden should become a haven for public enjoyment, and a setting for artistic expression.
Working with Gavin Henderson, then Chair of the Regency Society, the idea emerged to create a sculpture garden within a beautifully planted English landscape, supported by trustees and volunteers.
The Creation of a Trust
With a generous founding contribution from the Dale family, the Antony Dale Trust was established, transferring the garden from private ownership into a charitable trust.
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The founding trustees included Gavin Henderson as Chair, alongside Stephen Neiman, Caroline Cowley and Nigel Robinson. Dorothea Campbell, Yvonne Dale’s long-time companion, also played an important role in shaping the Trust in its early years.
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Together, they laid the foundations for the bequeathed garden’s transformation — unlocking the Secret Garden for all.
Reimagining the Garden
In 2014, the garden was barely more than an empty lawn, edged with the original loggia still standing today.
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Since then, the Trustees have gradually reshaped and enhanced the site. New access has been created through the addition of gates, a ramp and stone steps, opening the garden to a wider audience.
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The planting scheme was reimagined by Nick Dwyer, whose design established the richly layered landscape seen today — and which continues to evolve under his care.
A Living Legacy
Today, the Secret Garden stands as a testament to the vision and generosity of Antony and Yvonne Dale.
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What was once a private sanctuary has become a shared space — where heritage, nature and art come together, sustained by a charitable trust and a vibrant community of volunteers.
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Quietly transformed over time, the garden continues to grow for the enjoyment of all who visit, today and tomorrow.