Merriments Cafe & Gardens

About

Discover Merriments Gardens

Tucked away behind tall hedges, Merriments Gardens in East Sussex is a hidden gem for garden lovers which is open all year round. Spanning four acres, these gardens are thoughtfully designed with beautiful, colour-themed borders, showcasing an inspiring array of plants that provide interest throughout the seasons.   The gardens are organic and pesticides are not used to help protect the wildlife and insects which have made Merriments their home.

In spring, visitors are greeted by delicate wildflowers and a meadow awash with blue camassia.  See mature magnolias and vibrant tulips before peonies, azaleas, and rhododendrons come into bloom. The garden bursts with life in summer, with roses, poppies, and a variety of other summer blooms taking centre stage. Visit the colourful meadows where you will find the bee hives and an array of butterflies.

In addition, guests can explore a medicinal garden brimming with fragrant herbs and a magnificent display of lavender in June and July.

For those seeking a moment of quiet, a bird hide provides the perfect spot to observe birds feeding undisturbed in a peaceful environment.

When autumn arrives, Merriments transforms once more, offering a dramatic spectacle of fiery foliage and swathes of Sedums.

In the colder winter months, you can wrap up warm and visit the gardens to see the winter light filter through bare branches including in the atmospheric silver birth forest when the pale trunks glow against the winter sun.  This is the time of year to discover how much colour, texture and movement the garden offers – stand on the Monet style bridge for a view over the gardens and enjoy the gentle movement and reflections seen in the garden ponds and rills.  Frost can give leaves, seed heads and grasses a silvery edge, making familiar views feel entirely new.  In the stillness, listen for birds and notice the small details that are easily missed in busier seasons.

After Christmas, snowdrops are among the first treasures to look for, appearing in bright drifts alongside generous clusters of hellebores. Their nodding flowers bring delicate shades of white, cream, pink and plum to shaded borders. By late January, the earliest daffodils may be opening, offering a cheerful promise that spring is on its way and white crocus can be seen in the silver birch forest.

Accessibility and Facilities

The gardens are open every day of the year, offering ample free parking for visitors. Accessibility is a priority, with paths designed to accommodate wheelchair users. Well-behaved dogs are welcome, provided they are kept on leads while within the gardens and café areas.

Merriments Conservatory Café

Merriments Conservatory Café is open seven days a week offering a place to relax with a coffee or perhaps even a Merriments Gin.  Savour freshly prepared lunches, indulge in afternoon tea, or enjoy a traditional Sunday Roast (served on Sundays from 4 October 2026). The café operates alongside the gardens, making it an ideal place to unwind after exploring the grounds.  Garden admission is not necessary to visit the Conservatory Café.

Events and Special Experiences

For details about upcoming garden events and special evening dining experiences visitors are encouraged to look at Merriments website.