Families are invited to wrap up warm, step into the colours of autumn and follow a brand-new Pumpkin Trail through Merriments Gardens this October half term, from Monday 26 October to Sunday 1 November 2026. Children under 15 are free and adult admission to the gardens is just £8 including the Pumpkin Trail.
Set within the four-acre, the trail invites visitors to hunt for hidden pumpkins, crunch through fallen leaves and enjoy a seasonal day out surrounded by glowing borders, garden paths and family-friendly discoveries.
Autumn adventure in the gardens
October is one of the most atmospheric times to visit Merriments Gardens. As the season turns, visitors can expect rich autumn colour, crisp leaves underfoot and a fresh sense of discovery around every corner.
Families can wander at their own pace, cross the Monet-style bridge, pause by the koi pond and take in the garden’s changing colours. Well-behaved dogs are welcome too, making it an autumn outing for the whole family.
Seasonal treats in the Conservatory Café
After the trail, visitors can warm up in the Conservatory Café with autumn specials including pumpkin spiced lattes and white-hot chocolate topped with Halloween-inspired marshmallows – the perfect treat after a brisk garden explore.
Breakfast, lunch, homemade cakes and barista coffee will also be available, giving visitors plenty of reasons to linger before or after exploring the gardens.
Event: Pumpkin Trail, October half term week, from Monday 26 October 2026
Location: Merriments Gardens, Hurst Green, East Sussex
Dog friendly: Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the café and gardens
Merriments Gardens looks forward to welcoming visitors for a colourful, pumpkin-filled autumn adventure. Set just off the A21 before the village of Hurst Green, Merriments is an easy-to-reach attraction set in a four-acre countryside setting.
The gardens are open daily: Monday to Saturday, 8.30am to 4.30pm, and Sunday, 9.30am to 4.30pm. Garden admission is £8 for adults, with free entry for children under 15. Season tickets are available at £35 for one person or £55 for two. Free entry to RHS members as Merriments is an RHS Partner Garden.
Accessible, wheelchair-friendly paths run through the gardens, and a new children’s play area is located behind the café.
Groups are welcome throughout the year, with special rates available for advance bookings made directly with Merriments.
For more information about the Pumpkin Trail or visiting Merriments Café & Gardens, please contact the team at [email protected] or visit their website
