BLOSSOMING CLERGY HOUSE

The Judas Tree, a fine example of a tree of this age, was planted in the garden by the National Trust's first tenant Sir Robert Witt soon after the Clergy House was purchased in 1896. The Judas Tree has beautiful rose pink flowers in May and pods that ripen to purple in the autumn. The tree was damaged in the great storm of 1987 when a large evergreen tree fell and damaged the trunk resulting in its present unusual shape.

There are many stories to the tree's name. The tree, a native of the Eastern Mediterranean and Southern Europe, is said to be the type in which Judas Iscariot hanged himself after betraying Christ and that the flowers turned pink to reflect Judas's blush of shame for his betrayal. Before that time the blossoms were said to be white. A more likely explanation is that the name is a corruption of 'Judaeo Tree' from the area in Israel where it is extremely common.

Alfriston Clergy House was the first property to be acquired by the National Trust in 1896, and is in an idyllic setting next to the village church with views across the River Cuckmere.

Admission 3.25 Adults, 1.60 Children. The Clergy House is open every day except Tuesday and Friday from 10am to 5pm. The gift shop is open as the house. Free to members of the National Trust. For further information call 01323 870001 or email [email protected].