Autumn Colours at Merriments Gardens
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.”
Merriments is also a dog-friendly destination, with dogs on leads welcome in both the gardens and Conservatory Café. Water bowls are available in the gardens close to the seating areas.
Autumn highlights in the gardens
This season, visitors can look forward to:
- New seating areas to enjoy the autumn colours
- A refreshed visitor route for a gentle seasonal stroll
- Wildflower seeds packaged by Merriments’ Head Gardener to plant at home
- Water features, late flowers, berries, seedheads and fragrant herbs that attract birds, bees and other pollinators
- The return of Sunday lunches in the Conservatory Cafe
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. The light, relaxed surroundings make it an ideal spot for a catch-up, a quiet coffee or a treat after walking through the borders.
The much-loved Sunday roasts will return for autumn, giving visitors another reason to linger at Merriments. Whether it is a family gathering, a catch-up with friends or a cosy seasonal lunch after a countryside stroll, the Conservatory Café offers a comfortable setting to enjoy good food and the slower pace of the season.
The café will also host selected evening events, including Drag Bingo Night on 23 October 2026 with Delilah Tickles and Anita Wee. The event starts at 6.30pm, with tickets priced at £25 including a charcuterie board, a non-alcoholic cocktail on arrival, bingo, entertainment, prizes and photo opportunities.
Set just off the A21 before the village of Hurst Green, Merriments is an easy-to-reach countryside escape for anyone who loves gardens, good food, wildlife, seasonal colour and relaxed family-friendly days out.
The gardens are open daily, Monday to Saturday from 8.30am to 4.30pm, and Sunday from 9.30am to 4.30pm. Admission to the garden is £8 for adults. Children under 15 enter free. Garden season tickets are available at £35 for single and £55 for joint tickets.
The paths are accessible and wheelchair friendly, ensuring the gardens can be enjoyed by all. There is also a new children’s play area tucked away behind the café.
Groups are also welcome throughout the year, and special rates apply when booking in advance directly with Merriments.
Location
Merriments Gardens is situated at Hawkhurst Road, Hurst Green, Etchingham, East Sussex, TN19 7RA. https://merrimentsgardens.co.uk