29 May 2024
Best things to do at Wakehurst this summer
As the days grow longer, the weather gets warmer and the gardens continue to flourish, enjoy the ultimate summer day at Wakehurst.
Celebrate and learn with Meadowland
Discover the magic of meadows at Wakehurst this summer.
Explore four bespoke art installations highlighting the diverse plants and wildlife in these threatened habitats. Until September, Meadowland will showcase the changing beauty of the meadow cycle.
Join us to protect these vital ecosystems for future generations, and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of wildflowers, grasses, and busy pollinators. Each visit offers a unique glimpse into these precious landscapes.
Join our Nature Heroes in another mission
Join our Nature Heroes squad over the summer holidays on a Flower Power mission to save the planet!
Explore Wakehurst's newly opened South Park meadow, discovering amazing flowers with unique superpowers. Complete the challenges and crack the code to earn another badge for your Nature Heroes cape.
Experience the magic of summer at our exclusive twilight circus event.
Wander through our wild landscape while enjoying award-winning musicians, dancers, and circus performers. Sip botanical cocktails, savor street food, and marvel at mesmerising art installations at dusk. Save on city travel and embrace the best of summer at Wanderwild!
Become a citizen scientist
Help us unlock the secrets of pollinator-friendly trees with our Trees for Bees trail.
By counting insects on flowering or pollen-producing trees during your garden explorations,, your valuable contributions will enable us to cultivate thriving urban spaces that support diverse pollinator populations.. Dive into the Trees for Bees experience with our easy-to-use smartphone app and guide, available at the Visitor Centre and online.
Marvel at Planet Wakehurst for the last time
Experience the final moments of Planet Wakehurst, the UK's largest outdoor art installation, as it enters its final season at Wakehurst. Step back and take in every inch of this grand-scale masterpiece wrapping the Elizabethan Mansion and explore the captivating viewpoints from Canopy Walk. Don't miss this extraordinary celebration of art and nature before the scaffolding comes down in August, making way for the Mansion's reopening in spring 2025.
Enjoy outdoor family fun
Get ready for a summer adventure at Wakehurst!
Explore our natural play spaces, including Tree Trunk Trek, Wild Wood, and the newly refurbished Children's and Community Garden, where an expanded Mud Kitchen awaits, for even more messy play. Take a rest at, shady spots, and marvel at our vibrant edible wildflower meadow, as you experience a space to learn, grow, and play this summer!
Revel in the summer showstoppers
As summer unfolds at Wakehurst, we eagerly await the emergence of new landscapes and experiences. Escape the rising temperatures by venturing into the verdant Water Gardens, where a lush tapestry of foliage and trickling water at The Slips and Iris Dell offer a serene retreat.
Journey through Westwood Valley to discover our stately Rhododendron shrubs and bask in the dappled shade surrounding Westwood Lake and the Wetlands, an idyllic setting for a picnic.
For breathtaking views, visit Coronation Meadow. This undulating landscape provides an enchanting escape from the hustle and bustle, immersing you in the beauty of the Sussex High Weald.
Enjoy summer catering
Indulge in our new summer menu at our catering outlets, featuring fresh flavours and locally- sourced ingredients inspired by our gardens. Enjoy light bites and refreshing drinks including our new iced coffees or a grab-and-go snack from Stables Pantry. Relax in the dog-friendly Seeds Cafe with your furry friends and treat them to our new 'Pup Cups' to keep them refreshed
Learn something new at a workshops
Experience the enchantment of Wakehurst after dark with our Bat Walk or immerse yourself in the botanical splendour of summer through a Wildflower Wander or Meadow Bathing session. Enhance your understanding with seasonal foraging or delve into the art of Reiki and leave with a practitioner's qualification. There is plenty for everyone to enjoy in the months ahead.