Merriments Gardens, Hawkhurst Road, Hurst Green, Etchingham, East Sussex, TN19 7RA.
Merriments Gardens and Conservatory Café in East Sussex is inviting visitors to enjoy the best of autumn, as its four-acre country gardens shift into rich seasonal colour. Trees turn shades of orange, red, russet and gold, while late-flowering plants, grasses and seedheads bring texture and a final splash of colour before winter arrives.
With winding paths, tranquil water features, peaceful seating areas and views that change throughout the season, Merriments offers an uplifting autumn day out for garden lovers, families, photographers and visitors looking for a relaxed countryside escape with friends or four-legged companions.
The gardens are also alive with autumn wildlife. Birds can be spotted visiting feeders and berries, while bees and other pollinators make the most of the late flowers before the colder months arrive, bringing movement and life to the borders.
New for autumn: wildflower seeds to take home
Autumn is also an ideal time to plan ahead for wildflower meadows, and visitors can pick up Merriments wildflower seeds from the shop. Specially packaged by the Head Gardener, the seeds are designed to help visitors choose the right mix for their garden soil, making them a simple way to bring a little of Merriments’ natural beauty home. Head Gardener Dan Warne said: “You can sow wildflower meadow seeds from September to October, while the soil is still warm and the timing mimics natural seed drop. The winter chill helps germinate certain native perennial seeds and annuals such as yellow rattle. Although its best to avoid planting in heavy clay soils in late autumn, as they can stay too wet and cold.”
After exploring the gardens, visitors can pause in Merriments Conservatory Café, which is open daily and offers a warm, welcoming place to enjoy seasonal food, hot drinks, homemade cakes and refreshments. Sunday roasts will return for autumn, giving visitors another reason to linger.
Merriments Gardens is situated at Hawkhurst Road, Hurst Green, Etchingham, East Sussex, TN19 7RA.
For opening times and admission prices visit: https://merrimentsgardens.co.uk