Merriments Gardens Invites Visitors to a Free Summer Open Day this August

Merriments Gardens

Merriments Gardens Invites Visitors to a Free Summer Open Day this August Merriments Gardens and Café in East Sussex will welcome visitors to a free Summer Open Day on Sunday 23 August 2026, offering complimentary garden admission, guided tours, family activities, seasonal food, special offers and the chance to enjoy the gardens at one of the best times of year for butterflies. Merriments is a dog-friendly destination, with dogs on leads welcome in both the gardens and café. Water bowls are available near the garden seating areas, many of which are set in shaded spots, making it a comfortable place for visitors and their four-legged companions to relax. Garden lovers, families and anyone looking for an inspiring summer day out are invited to discover Merriments Gardens in Hurst Green, near Etchingham, when the gardens offer complimentary admission from 9.30am to 4.30pm. What's New in the Gardens The August Open Day will showcase the continuing revival of Merriments, giving visitors the chance to explore recent improvements and enjoy fresh seasonal planting across the gardens. • New seating areas where visitors can pause and take in the surroundings. • A refreshed visitor route through newly restored and expanded areas of the garden. • A selection of divided plants from the gardens and wildflower seeds available to buy on the day from Head Gardener Dan Warne and the gardening team. Visitors can make a day of it with garden tours, a free prize draw, a children's 'Find the Word' trail and an all-day BBQ served inside the garden. Merriments Café will also be open with a limited menu, refreshments and relaxed indoor and outdoor seating. As an extra incentive for regular visitors, Merriments will offer £5 off all season garden tickets purchased on the day. Guided Tours and Garden Highlights Throughout the day, guided tours will be led by Head Gardener Dan, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the latest improvements, planting schemes and future plans for the gardens. Highlights include the bee hives, restored water features, summer borders and fragrant herbs in the medicinal garden. Dogs are welcome in both the gardens and café. The paths are accessible and wheelchair friendly, ensuring the gardens can be enjoyed by all.